HUME CITY COUNCIL TOGETHER WITH THE HUME GLOBAL LEARNING VILLAGE IMAGINE EXPLORE DISCOVER VOLUME 30 SUMMER 2014 www.hume.vic.gov.au Students get hands-on with work placement at The Age Library Volunteering and working in the environmental industry New study: A Hume Global Learning Centre for Sunbury Craigieburn’s first multiservice agency Learning Together 4: enhancing learning opportunities Hume Multiversity enrolments now open The Teachers’ Scholarships 2013 winners Shaping the future of our local libraries Welcome to Imagine, Explore, Discover The warm weather has finally arrived and there is no better time than summer to celebrate learning. On the following pages you will be sure to find a course to enrol in, a healthy activity to try, or an event to attend this summer, all held by our Hume Global Learning Village (HGLV) members. We celebrate learning by bringing you some important news. As previously featured in this magazine, the Learning Together 4 Action Plan has been finalised. We have prepared a summary which explains how the plan will provide more opportunities for learning in our city. Also in this edition you will be introduced to the six winners and 12 runners-up of the Hume City Council 2013 Teachers’ Scholarships awards. I would like to highlight an interview with researcher and author Dr Leone Wheleer. Leone co-wrote the Learning as a Driver for Change report, in which she presented the case studies of our own Hume Global Learning Village and the Gwydir Shire Council’s Learning Region in New South Wales. I encourage you to read this important document that examines how different councils are developing partnerships with their local communities. In other news, you can find out all about Connections@Craigieburn, Craigieburn’s first multiservice agency operating from the old library site; the Collingwood English Language School (Broadmeadows campus) and its transition program for refugee children, and Tomorrow’s Library, a consultation project that is shaping the future of our local libraries. Finally, I would like to invite you to visit our webpage and read IED’s online edition. Visit hume.vic.gov.au/imagineexplorediscover to find out more and be inspired by our learning community’s latest news and projects. Happy summer reading. Ken Thompson Chairman, Hume Global Learning Village Committee Contents HUME LIBRARIES NEW PARTNERSHIP PAGE 3 SUPER AGENCY CONNECTIONS AT CRAIGIEBURN PAGE 4 A HUME GLOBAL LEARNING CENTRE FOR SUNBURY PAGE 5 LEARNING TOGETHER 4 ACTION PLAN PAGE 8 HUME MULTIVERSITY ENROL NOW PAGE 13 VOLUNTEERING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT TEACHERS’ SCHOLARSHIPS 2013 WINNERS PAGE 14 SHAPING THE FUTURE OF YOUR LOCAL LIBRARY PAGE 16 Hume Global Learning Village Get into the loop and build up your network Become a Hume Global Learning Village (HGLV) member and keep up to date with our learning community’s news. Build up your network, receive free coverage of your programs and events in the Imagine, Explore, Discover and the monthly email newsletter Village Voice and get involved with the many learning opportunities happening in Hume. Become a HGLV member today to enjoy these benefits. It is free to join! The HGLV is a unique, dynamic and inclusive network of 800+ individuals and organisations who are committed to improving learning opportunities in Hume. For more info visit hume.vic.gov.au/Libraries_Learning Students get hands on with Hume Libraries work placement Kangan Institute teacher Michael Drakoulis recalls that it was a challenge to find an organisation that would take his eight students for a two–month long work placement. His first point of contact was Hume City Council’s Volunteer Coordinator Jean Tusler, who then introduced him to Wendy Byron, Coordinator, The Age Library. Weeks later the group of students with mild intellectual disabilities and special learning needs were all undertaking work placements at The Age Library in Broadmeadows. The internship is part of Kangan’s Certificate I in Transition Education where participating students perform a range of simple but important tasks. FOR MORE INFO kangan.edu.au Work placement provides basic work and life skills for students with special learning needs “The students usually help the library staff with tidying the shelves and putting books back into correct order, which is a challenging job given the high usage of The Age Library,“ said Wendy. A librarian provided the students with an induction and guidance on which areas of the library needed tidying. “We have nearly 1,000 visitors on some days so keeping materials in order is time– consuming, and we appreciate the help the students give us,” she said. “I think it is great that customers get to see that the library service is inclusive; that we encourage and support people of all abilities,” Wendy said. Program Coordinator at Kangan Institute, Susan Siebel, said that the work placements offer students a vital stepping stone to further involvement in the community. “Students have the opportunity to work as part of a team and explore options for future participation in community activities,” she said. Kangan Institute has partnerships with Melbourne City Mission, St John of God Health Care and Broadmeadows Disability Service. Students can access this program by applying directly to Kangan Institute. What do you enjoy the most about working at the library? Sandra DeFilippis, 35 years old My favourite task is putting away the different books and returning them to the shelves. I love reading the books too! I also like computer work and will probably do a course after this placement ends. Zoe Van Merlo, 20 years old My main task is to put the books away on their respective shelves; I also like to sign out the borrowed books. I am not sure what I will do after this placement, probably something to do with cooking, as I love cooking. Helen Poutselas, 26 years old I enjoy all my tasks at the library; sorting out books and DVDs. When I finish the Transition in Education Certificate, I will probably do a course in childcare. Hume Enviro Champions Be inspired to take action! Hume City Council’s Enviro Champions are expanding their network and inviting people interested in sustainability to attend their monthly MeetUps. At the MeetUps, participants can connect and share ideas with the Enviro Champions. “At each MeetUp we offer a light supper and anyone is welcome to come along and discuss sustainability projects they’d like to get underway. People are also encouraged to bring food to share,” said Caroline Overbeek, Hume City Council’s Environmental Community Development Officer. “It’s a great opportunity to hear about current projects, find out more about Hume City Council’s Enviro Champions training program and consider nominating to participate in this free program in 2014,” she said. Past meetings included the screening of Better Block, a TED talk about transforming streets into places for people; Volcano Dreaming, a special presentation to celebrate Biodiversity Month; and the Stuff Swap and Make ‘n’ Mend events where participants were invited to bring clothes, books and small items to swap and repair. Over the past two years, the program has trained 30 leaders from nine different cultural backgrounds to design and deliver environmental projects in the local community. Examples of successful projects include the Lemon Tree Project, Sunbury Organic Food Co–op and Energy Savers. Hume Enviro Champions MeetUps take place on the second Wednesday of each month at the Hume Global Learning Centre, Broadmeadows. FOR MORE INFO hume.vic.gov.au/environmentalchampions Volunteering and working in the environmental industry Do you know why the Eastern Barred Bandicoot, once common across Victoria’s volcanic plains and grasslands, is now one of the most endangered species in Victoria’s wild? Every Saturday, a group of volunteers from Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) heads out to Woodlands Historic Park in Greenvale in an attempt to find out the answer and to gain hands-on experience in practical conservation activities. Varying from tree planting to maintaining and repairing predator-proof fencing, these conservation activities often lead participants to further education and formal learning. Units completed in the training program can be used for a variety of courses including Certificates I and II in Conservation and Land Management. Julie Evans is one of the regular volunteers at Woodlands Historic Park. “The practical knowledge gained from volunteering on this program gave me such an insight into what it’s like to work in the environmental industry. I have now enrolled in the CVA Training Program and am looking forward to furthering my skills in the conservation field,” she said. “A lot of the people who come and help us are often very new to undertaking conservation activities so we always make sure we provide plenty of opportunities for them to learn about the bandicoots and how we can protect their valuable habitat,” said Travis Scicchitano, the Woodlands Project Officer at Conservation Volunteers Australia. FOR MORE INFO cva.org New study A learning centre for Sunbury A feasibility study has been commissioned by Hume City Council to explore the potential use of a new Hume Global Learning Centre in Sunbury. The study, to be completed in 2014, will help determine the best services required for the community’s learning needs. Similar to the Hume Global Learning Centres in Broadmeadows and Craigieburn, the Sunbury centre will incorporate facilities to support lifelong learning. The future Hume Global Learning Centre in Sunbury will house the new Sunbury Library. “The library will continue be a lively and interesting learning hub for the whole community, welcoming people of all ages and backgrounds,” said Marea Ekladious, Manager Learning Community. Construction of the centre is expected to commence in the 2016/17 financial year and Council will advocate to the State and Federal governments for funding assistance for the project. Yours to imagine, explore and discover The Hume Global Learning Centres The Hume Global Learning Centres (HGLCs) in Broadmeadows and Craigieburn are technology-rich learning spaces where the local community, organisations and businesses can gather and share knowledge. Come to the HGLCs this summer and take full advantage of the excellent facilities on offer, including: ƒ Meeting and training rooms ƒ Small meeting spaces ƒ e-Play area ƒ Onsite café and catering ƒ Occasional care ƒ Audio-visual fit-out ƒ Customer support area ƒ Art gallery and exhibition spaces ƒ Public library ƒ Free WiFi Mention this article and get 10% off a booking at one of the Hume Global Learning Centres during December 2013 and January 2014 “It will be a focus for a variety of learning, cultural and social opportunities. The library will incorporate meeting spaces for quiet study and information-seeking, as well as a multifunction space for storytelling and children’s activities, events, exhibitions, lectures and lifelong learning,” she said “Loved the space – will be back.” Presenter, Nasihah Consulting Group “Great open space, terrific facilities. Fresh and clean.” …. “What an incredible venue!” Presenter, Writers’ Festival at Craigieburn “Very happy with the open space and style of the rooms. Very friendly and encouraging.” Presenter, Ford Street Literature Festival “Best facilities I have used.” Presenter, Coles Group. “All staff members were welcoming and enthusiastic. Thank you!” Presenter, Craigieburn Literacy Festival Super agency Connections@Craigieburn The new Connections@Craigieburn is the first service centre to operate with eight community agencies working together to offer a range of services, including vocational training and education programs. In response to the need for increased community and referral services in Craigieburn, Anglicare Victoria, Berry Street, Broadmeadows Disability Service, The Brotherhood of St Laurence, Dianella Community Health, Kildonan Uniting Care, Lentara Uniting Care and Youth Projects formed the Craigieburn Integrated Community Services Centre. The consortium worked with Hume City Council to develop the old Craigieburn library into the multi-agency space that it is today. Gerda Zimmermann, Intake and Assessment Worker, said that the new hub is also offering early intervention programs, including family violence support services, financial literacy and counselling services and home-based family support for vulnerable children and families. “We are a source of information for people looking for services and other community resources. Connections@Craigieburn also provides large meeting rooms and training spaces for community members to meet and undertake community building projects,” said Gerda. Community health programs will also be offered in partnership with Dianella Community Health including dental, diabetes education, audiology and podiatry. FOR MORE INFO gzimmermann@bsl.org.au Gerda on 8339 6501 Jamie’s Ministry Of Food Mobile Kitchen in Hume From learning how to cook a simple and tasty omelette to a memorable roast chicken, participants attending the Jamie’s Ministry of Food course in the Mobile Kitchen parked just outside Hume City Council’s offices are in for a feast. “The Mobile Kitchen will be in Hume City as part of Healthy Together Hume Initiative. It will complement the programs we are already delivering to improve the health and wellbeing of people who live, work, learn and play in Hume City,” said Elizabeth Young, Healthy Together Hume Program Manager. Every week participants will learn how to cook healthy and quick meals. Classes are held for five consecutive weeks and each class runs for 90 minutes. The program aims to change people’s attitudes towards food and equip participants with the skills, knowledge and confidence they need to cook healthy meals. Classes cost $10 per session ($5 concession) and are open to everyone over the age of 12. Cycle Two courses commence on Wednesday 22 January 2014 and enrolments are now open. Jamie’s Ministry of Food Mobile Kitchen needs volunteers Jamie’s Ministry of Food is looking for people who are passionate about food and good nutrition, friendly, approachable and able to commit for two hours at the same time each week for five weeks from January 2014. If you’re interested in volunteering please contact Elizabeth Young at healthytogether@hume.vic.gov.au for more information. FOR MORE INFO jamiesministryoffood.com Helping refugee children settle in a new learning environment The Collingwood English Language School (CELS) – Broadmeadows Campus is providing newly-arrived migrant and refugee children with the skills they need before enrolling in a mainstream school. “We teach English and we also discuss and present topics that they will need in everyday life. We focus on mainstream curriculum including mathematics, sciences and social sciences,” explains Peter Mitsis, CELS Broadmeadows Campus Coordinator. The students come from a diverse background. “We cater for the needs of the increasing numbers of refugee children whose schooling has been interrupted, or, in some cases who have never been to school, who have been in refugee camps and detention centres prior to their enrolment and who present with high levels of trauma and significant welfare needs,” said Peter. CELS Broadmeadows is a combined primary and secondary school located in Johnstone Street, an area Peter describes as an ‘education hub’. “We are close to Kangan Institute and an early years learning centre. Thanks to Broadmeadows Valley Primary School and Hume Central Secondary College, we are able to share their grounds. This area is a one–stop–shop for education,” he said. Catering to 80 students aged between five and 17 years, from more than 30 countries, the school has small classrooms and qualified teachers. According to Peter, the school is expanding quickly and “is hoping for a new building very soon”. The period of enrolment for students varies from six to 12 months depending on individual student needs and pressures from student waiting lists. FOR MORE INFO hume.vic.gov.au/ Hume Libraries Tech.Help for your tech needs Although the group attending the Tech.Help program is quite diverse, with a mix of students, professionals looking for work, volunteers and groups of elderly women, they all have something in common. They are all trying to keep pace with the new digital media and technology. The program covers a range of topics including internet navigation and search engines, tablets and smartphones, the use of apps, email tips and social networking. “Initially we focused only on social media, but as the group began to grow and technology rapidly advanced with the take up of smartphones, tablets and so much more it became apparent that there was a need in the community for wider assistance in these areas,” said Justin Tamburrino, Librarian, The Age Library and Tech.Help’s founder. The program has been very successful since its creation in 2010 and continues to grow in demand, with clients often returning for multiple sessions. The group meets on the last Wednesday of every month from 10am to 1pm and is run by Hume Libraries and a group of volunteers at the Broadmeadows, Sunbury and Craigieburn libraries. FOR MORE INFO humelibraries.vic.gov.au Learning Together 4 A commitment to lifelong learning Hume City Council’s Learning Together 4 (LT4) Action Plan 2014–2017 is the fourth in a series of learning action plans designed to inspire and enhance opportunities for the Hume community to engage in learning. LT4 contains key actions designed to achieve the goals and aspirations of Learning Together 2030 (LT2030) strategy, the long term vision for learning in Hume City. Three long–term goals underpin the strategy: 1. To embed a culture of learning within the Hume community. 2. To strengthen pathways to learning, employment and shared prosperity for the Hume community. 3. To strengthen the Hume Global Learning Village by expanding and consolidating the commitment of its partners through collaborative planning, community engagement and advocacy for learning. The three goals were originally developed to support community aspirations and address key challenges identified during the LT2030 consultation process. How will the LT4 plan provide more opportunities for learning in our city? Twenty four projects were developed based on feedback received through the consultation process. The projects will be implemented over the next four years and will contribute towards the achievement of the three goals of the strategy. Key to the success of previous action plans was the dedication and commitment of Council, educational institutions, businesses, the Hume Global Learning Village Advisory Board and Committee, community organisations and the community, to work together to build social and economic wellbeing. It is believed social and economic wellbeing can be achieved through a wholehearted commitment to lifelong learning in all its forms and the provision of a diverse range of learning opportunities. Developing LT4 required a broad consultation process. How was this done? A series of consultation activities, including workshops, interviews, online surveys and discussion forums were undertaken during May and June 2013, to allow stakeholders to speak about what they saw as the key learning needs, gaps and priorities in Hume City over the next four years. What were the key learning challenges identified during the consultation process? It is important to recognise that many successes have come from previous action plans, and that LT4’s focus is about building on those successes. Four major themes emerged from the consultation and have been considered in the development of projects and actions for this plan: - Create learning opportunities (what is required to create learning opportunities in Hume?) - Accessing learning (what can be done to make learning more accessible?) - Types of learning (what types of learning that are important, formal, informal, lifelong learning?) ƒ The Hume Global Learning Village (how to strengthen connections between HGLV members?) “Every person is introduced to lifelong learning as early as possible.” Workshop participant “Use the Village network to its full potential … [Help] people to understand its potential and what they can get from it. “ Consultation Session participants “Access to community facilities – equitable, cheap or free, appropriate size.” HCC Staff Workshop Active citizenship Women’s leadership course Since 2003, the Victorian Immigrant Refugee and Women’s Coalition (VIRWC) has been providing leadership courses for women interested in gaining skills to become community leaders and have an active voice in society. “It is important for women to have a say, to be more involved in their community, to know what is going on in their local councils,” said Safa Almarhoun, Community Development and Partnership Officer at the VIRWC. The Women’s Leadership course is run by VIRWC in partnership with Hume City Council. The seven-week long pre-accredited course covers human rights and the different perceptions of the concept in different societies. It also covers community leadership, public speaking, and advocacy and lobbying. “We ran the same course in the South East region last year, and a woman who attended the course ran for the local council and came very close to being elected. Lots of women eventually pursue projects they are interested in,” said Safa. Deborah Jane Anscombe, a former mental health nurse, is attending the course at the Hume Global Learning Centre – Broadmeadows. “I think these initiatives are very important; they are empowering for women and broaden everyone’s perspective on how you view things. They bring women together and show them direction and their purpose within the community.” Lee Scott, a graphic designer also attending the program, says that it is important for women to be aware of what is available to them. “Women need to be up to speed with the Australian political and social system, and if they are in trouble they need to know that there is a multitude of organisations available to help them.” FOR MORE INFO virwc.org .au Employment Skills Program Learning on the job The Work Skills for Administration program has been in operation at the Roxburgh Park Homestead Community and Learning Centre for four years. To date, it is one of the Centre’s most successful initiatives. Interest in the program developed from initial requests to the Centre. “We had requests from our work experience students, job network agencies, those seeking a career in office administration and looking for a career skills program,” said Raphael Merola, Learning Centre Administrative Officer. The program helps put into practice many of the skills already learnt by the participant in the context of a business office. After initial onsite training and orientation, the participants undertake work experience in an administrative role. They deal with enquires relating to programs and services at the Homestead with the support of staff who assist, guide and mentor the group for a period of eight weeks. The course is especially beneficial for women returning to the workforce, young people entering the job market and migrants seeking an insight into the Australian workplace. Units covered include using business equipment and resources, delivering a service to customers, communicating in the workplace and working effectively in a business environment. Robert McMillian, age 24, said his time at the Homestead was ‘excellent’. “I am now using all the skills learnt while volunteering at the Homestead. I believe coming to the Homestead played a big part for me in finding employment.“ FOR MORE INFO 9205 2760 hume.vic.gov.au Jacquie Blight Art found in nature …from nature extracted is Sunbury artist Jacquie Blight’s first exhibition in Craigieburn. Passionate about nature, its patterns, textures and colours, Jacquie sees nature as an endless source of wonder and inspiration. She will be presenting her latest paintings at the Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn Art Gallery. Imagine, Explore, Discover: This is your first time exhibiting in Craigieburn. How does it feel? Jacquie Blight: I feel very excited. The Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn, is an excellent building and the gallery, with its simple form and crisp white walls, is the perfect backdrop for my paintings. I was very pleased to have been selected and given the opportunity by Hume City Council to exhibit at this lovely new gallery space. IED: What is your exhibition …from nature extracted about? JB: For me nature is an endless source of wonder. On every walk I discover new things; patterns, shapes, colours, textures. Also, the myriad effects of light, provide infinite possibilities for artistic interpretation. I like the idea of creating works of art, extracted from nature, that have timeless appeal. IED: Is Sunbury also a source of inspiration for you? JB: Much of my inspiration emanates from Sunbury, both the community and environment. My first connection was in 1972 when it was the venue for the Architects’ convention. Not long after that my husband John and I chose Sunbury as a place to live and work. We built our home here, raised our two children Bel and Matt, and John’s parents now live here too. We have our architectural practice Blight Architects which we operate from our home, and I lead Tai Chi at Sunbury Community Health Centre one day a week. IED: What’s next in your career? JB: I like to have a variety of things on the go. I’ve got some mixed media work, of a nature theme, that I’ve had floating around in my head for a long while, which I’d like to get stuck into. I am currently working on a portrait of internationally renowned Melbourne artist Godwin Bradbeer for my next Archibald entry. Portrait Artists Australia are having an exhibition at the Australian Embassy in Washington DC, next year, which I also hope to participate in. The …extracted from nature exhibition is open until Sunday 2 February 2014 at the Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn Art Gallery (75–95 Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn, phone 9205 2200) TO READ JACQUI’S FULL INTERVIEW hume.vic.gov.au/imagineexplorediscover WHAT’S ON Libraries and Learning Summer Program The quarterly What’s On Libraries and Learning Program lists exciting free activities and workshops happening in Hume. Now with a fresh new look! Libraries and Learning Summer Program FOR MORE INFO humelibraries.vic.gov.au Hume Global Learning Village Learning as a driver for change Imagine, Explore, Discover (IED) caught up with researcher and author Dr Leone Wheeler about her latest published work, the Learning as a Driver for Change report. Written by Dr Wheeler and Dr Shanti Wong, the report draws on case studies of Hume City Council’s Hume Global Learning Village and Gwydir Shire Council’s Learning Region in New South Wales. It presents a template for other councils interested in developing learning partnerships in their own communities and shows how these learning partnerships are helping to improve social outcomes. IED: Why did you choose the Hume Global Learning Village and the Gwydir Learning Region as case studies for this report? Leone Wheeler: They were good practice examples of learning community developments in Australia. They also provided examples of outer metropolitan and rural locations. Both communities started with similar philosophies, that it takes a village to raise a child. They were also examples of local government leading these types of initiatives – which is in and of itself innovative. Hume residents now have access to a wide range of health, community, social and learning programs under one roof. At the newly opened Broadmeadows Community Hub, on the corner of Widford and Freda streets, you’ll be able to access local community information and participate in a broad range of programs and activities. You can also make an appointment with your local Maternal and Child Health Nurse, bring your toddler along to a playgroup, host your own community event and attend one of the many learning and training programs on offer. IED: Were you surprised by your findings? LW: While not surprising, it is a very complex undertaking and it takes a long time to develop a culture of learning, where people think that learning is important to help drive economic development and social inclusion in their community. It is not always a straightforward thing to do and it takes leadership to do this. IED: What feedback have you received since the report’s launch? LW: We have had great feedback. The report has been picked up by the PASCAL Observatory and also Australian Policy Online and we started a discussion about the issues on the Adult Learning Australia Linkedin site. People think that the leadership taken by local government is very important and they would like to see more examples in Australia. IED: What is the future of Learning as a Driver for Change? LW: We’ve just presented the paper at the Pascal Observatory Conference in Hong Kong. We hope to undertake a follow up project which will focus on indicators. FOR MORE INFO AND TO DOWNLOAD A COPY OF THE REPORT hume.vic.gov.au/Libraries_Learning and click on Broadmeadows Community Hub A place for families and children Hume residents now have access to a wide range of health, community, social and learning programs under one roof. At the newly opened Broadmeadows Community Hub, on the corner of Widford and Freda streets, you’ll be able to access local community information and participate in a broad range of programs and activities. You can also make an appointment with your local Maternal and Child Health Nurse, bring your toddler along to a playgroup, host your own community event and attend one of the many learning and training programs on offer. FOR MORE INFO 9356 6160 hume.vic.gov.au/broadmeadowshub Hume Multiversity Course enrolments now open Local secondary students considering their future education and career options can now enrol in the undergraduate courses offered through the Hume Multiversity initiative. Psychology, management, business and childcare are among the subjects being offered by Deakin University, Kangan Institute and Victoria University from next year. Students can attend classes right here in Hume and interact with tutors and lecturers at other locations via the internet and video conference technology. Tutors and lecturers will also be available onsite offering face–to–face support. Come along to one of the information sessions to find out about the courses being delivered: Deakin University Information Session. This session will cover three courses: Associate Degree of Arts, Business and Sciences; Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and Bachelor of Psychological Science) at the Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn. Tuesday 10 December, 6pm-7pm. For more information visit deakin.net.au/doorstep or contact Deakin 1300 753 680 Kangan Institute Information Session Visit www.kangan.edu.au for a list of all sessions happening in Broadmeadows and Craigieburn. Courses offered in 2014 Master of Education at the Hume Global Learning Centre (HGLC) – Broadmeadows NEW! Bachelor of Psychological Science at the HGLC – Craigieburn Bachelor of Early Childhood Education at the HGLC – Craigieburn Diploma of Business (Enterprise) at the Sunbury Neighbourhood House and Community Centre Diploma of Education Studies at the HGLC – Broadmeadows Diploma of Children’s Services at the HGLC – Craigieburn Diploma of Management at the HGLC – Craigieburn Advanced Diploma of Management at the HGLC – Craigieburn Associate Degree of Arts, Business and Sciences at the HGLC – Craigieburn Hume education guarantee scheme Didn’t get the VCE results you hoped for? The Hume Education Guarantee Scheme (HEGS) may be your pathway to a place at university. The HEGS will work with aspiring tertiary students who have not been offered a place through VTAC but who have satisfactorily completed VCE. These students will be able to seek assistance from Victoria University and Kangan Institute to secure a pathway into a course of interest, most likely through entry at a diploma level. The HEGS, a pilot project between Hume City Council and education partners Victoria University and Kangan Institute, will assist local students to access tertiary education opportunities by guaranteeing a place in a course with one of these two tertiary providers. FOR MORE INFO hume.vic.gov.au/yourpathwaytouniversity Celebrating inspirational Imagine, Explore, Discover proudly presents the Hume City Council Teachers’ Scholarships recipients and congratulates all winners, runners-up and nominees. Six winners received the main $4,000 prize money and 12 runners-up won the $500 scholarship award. With inspiring, innovative and forward thinking projects, the 2013 winners are now embarking on a new learning adventure and on the way to realise their own professional dream. Educators of St Andrews Sunbury Kindergarten, St Andrews Sunbury Kindergarten Early Years Educator Scholarship Winner The team of educators at St Andrews Kindergarten use a holistic approach to teaching. They combine technology, Howard Gardiner’s “multiple intelligencies” theory and the natural environment to enhance the children’s learning experiences. Community involvement with the kindergarten’s daily activities is encouraged. Family days, where parents are invited to volunteer and spend time with their children, are scheduled into the program at the beginning of the school year. A close relationship with local community and organisations has led to the development of a vegetable garden and landscaping of the kindergarten’s outdoor space. The team intends to use the scholarship award to further develop their open learning spaces and to support staff in applying the use of technology and music into the children’s learning activities. Runners-up Ann Katsivelas, Forever Friends Preschool, Sunbury; Amanda Walsh, Meadows Primary School Kindergarten, Broadmeadows Mathew O’Hagan, Teacher, Roxburgh Park Primary School, Roxburgh Park Primary School Teacher Scholarship Winner For Mathew, the role of a teacher extends beyond the curriculum, “it involves sparking curiosity about the world and crafting that into a lifelong passion to learn”. When describing his inspirational leadership, one former student recalls how, “he inspired me to become confident and establish my self-esteem and above all, made me feel happy about myself”. As a teacher, Mathew encourages students and the school community to participate in lifelong learning. He does this by developing a creative and engaging curriculum tailored to students’ interests and by modelling lifelong learning. He refers to his students as ‘digital natives’ and uses a wide range of ICT resources and interactive teaching methods to further their learning experiences. Mathew intends to use his scholarship money on a trip to the United States for a a research project which will investigate the collective impact of the Hume Global Learning Village and learning together strategies in Hume. Runners-up Sheena Collins-Marks, Dallas Brooks Community Primary School, Dallas; Jamile Hakim, Holy Child Primary School, Dallas Vanessa Young, Teacher, Mount Ridley P-12 College, Craigieburn Secondary School Scholarship Winner Based on the local social demographics and her determination to make a difference to her students, Vanessa studied the impact that trauma can have on young learners and implemented a Trauma Awareness Unit at school. She works collaboratively with families and organisations such as Berry St Childhood Institute, Pavilion School and the Department of Human Services and makes use of the Open Learning Environments at Mt Riddley College as a platform for her work. Vanessa actively seeks opportunities for students to share and collaborate on their achievements, tailoring learning to their needs and empowering them to create and achieve their objectives. She intends to use her scholarship money to further her knowledge in trauma awareness and to assist other staff build capacity in the area. Runners-up Anthony Zerafa, Mount Ridley P-12 College, Craigieburn; Melissa Bonaddio, Mount Ridley P12 College, Craigieburn Joanna Mattox, Graduate Teacher, Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School, Sunbury Graduate Teacher Scholarship Winner Joanna’s focus on self-esteem in young people, her enthusiasm for teaching and commitment to her own professional development made her an inspirational and respected graduate teacher at the Sunbury and Macedon Ranges Specialist School. Combining her love of performing arts with teaching techniques, Joanna is making links with arts, literacy and numeracy to develop an applied learning curriculum for the school. Her students are now developing music and technology skills to contribute to the school’s arts program. Currently undertaking a Masters in Special Education at Deakin University, she will use her scholarship funds to develop knowledge and skills in performing arts, student welfare and student enhanced learning. Runners-up Kate Inturrisi, Roxburgh Rise Primary School, Roxburgh Park; Mucever Hasan, Sunbury Downs College, Sunbury Kevin Pope, Principal, Meadow Heights Primary School, Meadow Heights Open Category Educator Scholarship Winner Kevin has been a public school teacher for almost 40 years. As principal of Meadow Heights Primary School for the last eight years he has been working tirelessly to ensure a safe and bully-free environment for students. Kevin and the school community thrive to provide learning experiences as well as create an inquiry based learning environment. He has collaborated with families and the wider community for the wellbeing of his students. A strong advocate and practitioner for lifelong learning and social justice, Kevin ensures an inclusive and connected learning environment is achieved through dedication and a myriad of local school initiatives. Kevin intends to use the scholarship money to research how schools in Queensland and New South Wales are connecting their communities with local organisations and governments to improve life outcomes for their children. Runners-up Andrea Sutton, Aqua Wolves Swimming Club, Sunbury; Nader Hanna, Meadow Heights Learning Shop, Meadow Heights The Computer Club Team, Hume City Council Outstanding Team Scholarship Winner The Computer Club Team is strongly committed to supporting learning for a wide range of people, literacies and backgrounds. The diverse team of over 70 trainers, largely made up of volunteers, provide support to residents, students and community organisations across Hume in a variety of languages and a multitude of locations. Activities and programs are tailored to meet the specific IT needs of each participant. The team has actively engaged with primary and secondary schools in Hume, neighbourhood houses, training organisations and community groups, and delivered training to nearly 1,400 people in 2012. The scholarship money will be used to further develop skills of the team, who have largely come through community volunteer programs. Runners-up Early Years Team, Ilim College, Dallas; The Computer Clubhouse, Meadow Heights Learning Shop, Meadow Heights and innovative educators Tomorrow’s Library How will your library look in 2030? What if you could walk into any public library anywhere in the state and borrow from the collection with your local library membership card? Or what if you could borrow an item from one library and return it to any other library in Victoria? These and other questions are part of Tomorrow’s Library, a two year review of all public libraries in Victoria. The review is being conducted in two stages. The first stage examined how libraries currently operate and what communities want from their libraries in the future. All libraries in Victoria, including Hume Libraries, are participating in this review and are being asked to help shape the future of Victorian public library services. Stage one included a community consultation process. Hume residents were given the opportunity to contribute via public submission. “The report talks about the changing needs of the community and how libraries need to change and keep pace with the evolving technology,” said Mieke Mellars, Coordinator, Library Operations at Hume Libraries. “I think this review is very important to all communities across the state; it will provide greater levels of access for everyone. Currently rural services are falling behind in their ability to access expensive advances in technology, such as the RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), so this initiative will mean greater and more equitable access for everyone.” “There is a lot of work that needs to be done before any of this will come to fruition. In the end, there is a lot of willingness and cooperation happening between all the library services already, but there is no doubt that efficiencies can be made by avoiding duplication,” Mieke said. Stage two of Tomorrow’s Library has now closed. This followed the release of the Review of Victorian Public Libraries Stage Two Discussion Paper. This stage assesses the Victorian Library concept and reviews the public library funding. Hume City Council also prepared a submission in response to the Review of Victorian Public Libraries Stage Two Discussion Paper. The review is due to be completed by the end of 2013. FOR MORE INFO humelibraries.vic.gov.au The Age Library Hume Global Learning Centre – Broadmeadows 1093 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows 3047 03 9356 6900 Craigieburn Library Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn 75-95 Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn 3064 03 9356 6980 Gladstone Park Community Library Taylor Drive, Gladstone Park 3043 03 9356 6990 Sunbury Library 44 Macedon Street, Sunbury 3429 03 9356 6970 Tullamarine Library 58 Spring Street, Tullamarine 3043 03 9356 6966 Hume Mobile Library The Hume Mobile Library operates on a weekly timetable across Campbellfield, Coolaroo, Dallas, Greenvale, Meadow Heights and Roxburgh Park. 03 9356 6980 Hume City Council 1079 Pascoe Vale Road Broadmeadows VIC 3047 03 9356 6900 03 9356 6935 contactus@hume.vic.gov.au hume.vic.gov.au The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views or opinions shared by the Hume Global Learning Village and Hume City Council. IED is printed on 100% recycled paper