Learners, teachers and education providers from across Victoria have been recognised for their outstanding efforts transforming lives through adult community education at the 2018 Victorian Learn Local Awards.
Learn Local providers make a huge difference in their communities delivering adult community education programs. They help people who need extra support to turn their lives around with programs for people of all ages and from all walks of life.
The awards recognise the contribution of more than 300 Learn Local providers primarily focused on delivering pre-accredited and foundation level training in Victoria.
The winner of the Ro Allen Award Recognising Pre-accredited Learner Excellence David Hayes turned his life around after taking part in a workplace technology course at Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre.
Prior to the course, David felt socially isolated after a long stint of unemployment due to caring responsibilities. The course gave David valuable computer skills while providing an all-important network of friends and colleagues. David is now employed in a part-time job at Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre.
Two new categories were presented for the first time – the Victorian Learn Local Young Pre-accredited Learner Award, which was presented to Sale’s Aymee Schofield and the Victorian Learn Local Collaboration Award, which went to Manningham Learns, a strategic alliance of five neighbourhood houses in Melbourne east.
The Prepare for Work - Service Stars program delivered by Kensington Neighbourhood House won the Victorian Learn Local Pre-accredited Pathway Program Award, while the Kick-Start Your Career in Health initiative delivered by Noweyung Ltd took out the Victorian Learn Local Creating Local Solutions Award.
For more information, including background on the winners visit education.vic.gov.au/learnlocalawards.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“Learn Locals provide Victorians the opportunity to take their first step in training and on the path to a job – they are a crucial part of the training system and work at the grassroots of our communities.”
“This year’s winners include learners who have turned their lives around by gaining skills and getting jobs, as well as dedicated teachers and training providers who go the extra mile to help their students to succeed.”
Quotes attributable to Adult, Community and Further Education Board Acting Chairperson, Dr Ron Wilson
“The Awards recognise the inspirational efforts of learners, practitioners, training providers and leaders in the education and training network.”
“The Learn Local network makes a significant contribution to Victoria. It delivers the skills that support our economy and that underpin the social cohesion of our communities.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020