These researchers detail the components offered by the Cadigal Programme at the School of Indigenous Health Studies at the University of Sydney, Australia. This programme is intended to improve equity of access and participation for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, allowing lower scores on the University Admission Index or Tertiary Entrance Rank for Aboriginal applicants, who typically enter the programme with less educational experience in the basic sciences and less experience with academic skills necessary for tertiary study. An interview of a representative sample of Cadigal students found that participants received friendly and effective support at the time of application to the programme, were given the option of a 2-week orientation programme, the option of a reduced load in the first 2 years of enrolment, academic support and peer tutoring, and study aids. Unfortunately, the students also reported negative and racist attitudes of non-indigenous students toward the programme.
