BACKGROUND
The SwinLocal partnership was first established in late 2016. It sought to formalise new and existing relationships between Swinburne and a number of individual Learn Local organisations. The SwinLocal partnership is timely given State Government policy priorities that include an expectation of greater TAFE/Learn Local collaboration.
SwinLocal Vision: Partnering for sustainable growth and to expand opportunities for adult learners, our organisations and the community.
Activities and outcomes to date include:
- Partnership with CHAOS Network to deliver a Carers Employment Support Program (DFFH funded)
- Development of seven high-quality pathways programs from Learn Local to accredited training (including; mental health peer work, aged care, early childhood education and care, real estate, commercial cleaning, digital literacy and try a trade)
- VCAL Scholarships awarded to LLO students to undertake VET courses at Swinburne campuses.
- Hosting of women’s career forums for the community
- Industry partnerships
- Trade Trailer for building and construction developed and used to deliver training in the community
- Community projects including kitchen garden at Seville Primary School and a heritage garden restored at Coonara Community House in Upper Ferntree Gully.
Partners
The partners to date include:
- Swinburne University of Technology – Pathways and Vocational Education section
- Swinburne Skills and Jobs Centre
Learn Local Organisations:
- Cire Services – Yarra Junction, Lilydale and Chirnside Park
- Healesville Living and Learning Centre
- The Knox Learning Alliance – Incorporating The Basin Community House, Coonara Community House, Orana Neighbourhood House, Mountain District Learning Centre and Community Learning Centre (Rowville)
- Central Ringwood Community Centre
- North Ringwood Community House
- Arrabri Community House (Bayswater North)
- Yarrunga Community Centre (Croydon Hills)
- Mitcham Community House
- Mackie Rd Community House (Mulgrave)
- Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre
- Pines Learning (Doncaster East)
- Living and Learning @Ajani
- Alamein Neighbourhood and Learning Centre
- Glen Park Community Centre
- Park Orchards Community House and Learning Centre
The Partners have a formal model of operations including a vision statement, a Charter and formal MOUs.
Click on each of the logos for more detailed information about each partner.
Swinburne University of Technology
Cire Services
Cire Services (formerly Upper Yarra Community House) opened it’s doors in 1976, offering short hobby courses and playgroup for the local community. Since then there has been major inclusions to further grow and support the community.
Services now span 4 sites which run VET courses and early childhood education. Cire recently changed it’s name due to the organisations growth and geographical reach. Cire is proud of its long history however is more than a community house so the decision was made to create a fresh look represents the organisation and all the services we deliver under the one name. Cire is one of the largest ACE organisations in Eastern Melbourne and we have pioneered successful education options for young students at risk.
Healesville Living and Learning Centre
Healesville Living and Learning Centre is a Registered Training Organisation and adult education provider located in the Yarra Valley, delivering nationally accredited and pre-accredited training, VCE- VET courses and community and leisure programs.
The Centre prides it’s self on the access and support it gives vulnerable community members and provides activities and events that enable people to reconnect, socialise, improve their physical and mental health and provide the best learning and educational opportunities.The organisation was a 2007 Victorian Adult Community Education Award Finalist for Outstanding Learner. HLLC also provide venue hire for large and small events, JobActive agencies and various small businesses.
The Centre also proudly supports Healesville Environment Watch Inc (HEWI) that has an office at this location.
Knox Learning Alliance
The Knox Learning Alliance brings together a considerable collection of resources and knowledge in the training and careers planning space;
Together the Alliance has a combined allocation of 53,007 student contact hours of Learn Local pre accredited training each year. This represents a total pre accredited training budget of $381,719. (based on 2015 figures).
Across the five members of the Knox Learning Alliance 77 different pre accredited short courses are offered, primarily to those who are deemed to be in need of improved employability skills. These courses can be developed quickly and effectively in response to local needs as they are identified.
The Basin Community House
The Basin Community House Inc is situated at the foot of The Dandenong Ranges in a picturesque semi-rural setting, adjacent to The Basin Primary School.
The community of The Basin has a very distinct local identity, with a strong community focus. The Basin Community House Inc is a not for profit organisation that is committed to providing quality, relevant and accountable services to the community.
The House provides a diverse range of programs and services in an informal, supportive and welcoming environment. The programs vary each term and focus on the changing needs of the community.
Mountain District Learning Centre
Mountain District Learning Centre (MDLC) is a Learning and Community Centre, whose purpose is to enhance the lives of people, of all ages, in the Mountain District. It does this by providing education in a supportive environment, and by building stronger communities.
MDLC adheres to anti-discrimination laws that promote equal opportunity by protecting everyone from unlawful discrimination. MDLC’s anti-discrimination policy adheres to this principle and ensures a social and learning environment free from unlawful discrimination.
Orana Neighbourhood House
Orana is a place where people can come together to offer each other friendship, encouragement and support.
Orana offers a range of programs including adult education classes, hobby & leisure courses, exercise classes, social and self-development groups for people living in our community. The program offers opportunities for enjoyment, learning and to develop new interests and skills.
Orana Neighbourhood House is in Wantirna South, in the City of Knox, near to Knox City and Studfield Shopping Centres
Arrabri Communtiy House
Arrabri Community House offers a broad range of programs, courses and activities. All the services are designed to be affordable and to bring people together in a warm and welcoming environment.
Arrabri is a member of Learn Local which is a network of not-for-profit organisations providing adult community education and training throughout Victoria.
They offer health and wellbeing programs, computer courses, literacy programs, art, craft and cooking classes, employment skills, personal development programs and parenting courses. They also offer occasional child care and playgroups. Complementing our main building and the large multi-purpose room include a sports oval, a BMX track, playground, public toilets, picnic and BBQ facilities and tennis courts. There is also a garden nursery which is available for groups and programs.
Rooms are available for hire whether it is for business or private hire and are a regular meeting place for many local community groups.
The Park Orchards Community House & Learning Centre
The Park Orchards Community House & Learning Centre Incorporated is a vibrant community based organisation that provides quality community engagement through social, recreational and learning activities.
Park Orchards Community House & Learning Centre is a Registered Training Organisation offering Vocational Education and Training. We also offer pre-accredited courses that offer learners a pathway to employment or future education.
Glen Park Community Centre
Glen park community centre works to create a strong, connected community - free from poverty, isolation and injustice, where every person has access to food, housing, social and economic participation, lifelong learning and support.
We are a member of Learn Local - a network of over 300 not-for-profit organisations across Victoria offering adult community education and training to people from all walks of life.
Through innovative programs and strategic partnerships, Glen Park Community Centre has grown significantly and now provides training and programs including pre-employment pathway programs, health and well-being, handcrafts (including woodworking), painting... etc. These programs are specifically designed to promote physical and mental health, social inclusion and support while strengthening creativity and building skills.
Rowville Neighbourhood Learning Centre
The Rowville Neighbourhood Learning Centre Inc is a not-for-profit organisation which has been a focal point for community involvement, social networking & life long learning opportunities since 1995.
The Neighbourhood Learning Centre runs a variety of programs and is dedicated to the provision of high quality, financially accessible services and educational programs in a welcoming and respectful environment, which encourages participation, sharing, growth & learning.
People have the opportunity to further their education, gain/improve their life skills, enjoy activities of interest or try something completely new, in a relaxed informal atmosphere. Strong social networks have been formed through these avenues of participation, within the House and beyond.
North Ringwood Community House
North Ringwood Community House Inc (NRCHI) was established in 1975 was incorporated in 1985, and is managed by local elected community members. One of the features of a community house is the very strong commitment to and philosophy of community development. This is reflected in the House’s vision statement and strategic goals.
The North Ringwood Community House Inc. provides education and training courses and activities including:
- Accredited Training
- Computer training
- Arts and Crafts
- Languages
- Health and Fitness
- Social groups
- Room hire
The programs are led by highly experienced trainers who have valuable experiences in training and industry. They understand the needs of adults, and especially those who are returning to study. NRCH has a welcoming, friendly environment, with motivated and friendly staff. There is free on-site car-parking and small class sizes. Classes are held during school hours and terms.
Coonara Community House
Coonara Community House (CCH) was established in August 1976 as a place which offered alternative learning opportunities for adults and children. Since those early days CCH has grown both physically and in the range of programs offered.
Coonara became a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in 1995, and has been the recipient of many awards for its quality and innovative training and delivery of courses including the Adult Learning Australia ACE learning provider of the year award in 2012.
One of the features of a community house is the very strong commitment to, and philosophy of community development. This is reflected in CCH’s mission statement, statement of purpose and code of ethics.
Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre
Kew Neighbourhood Learning Centre is a place in the community where people come to share, connect, learn and realise their potential. It offers diverse programs in adult education, children’s services and social activities. There is also a wide range of responsive programs to those in the community who are experiencing social isolation and distress. Programs include a successful social enterprise café – Sparechair Café.
Courses includes creative pursuits such as art, music and writing as well as computers and technology, health and wellbeing and languages. Learn Local courses include a wide range of industry tasters as well as computer courses. Children are well catered for and a range of groups operate from the House offering social inclusion. Kew NLC also operates Kew Cares with a mission to “connect people in our local community to provide everyday essentials to those affected by family violence”
Central Ringwood Community Centre Inc.
The Central Ringwood Community Centre was formed in 1979 and has been running from its present location in Bedford Park since 1993.The venue enables members of the community to participate in educational, recreational and social activities and people of all abilities and backgrounds are welcome to attend. A course guide is published four times per year listing the programs that the centre runs. The venue is also available for other organisations to hire on a regular or an occasional basis.
Central Ringwood Community Centre operates with the financial support of Maroondah City Council, ACFE (Learn Local) and the Victorian State Government Department of Education and Training.
Mackie Rd Neighbourhood House
Mackie Rd Neighbourhood House, in Mulgrave, is governed by Kerrie Neighbourhood House Inc. which also oversee Kerrie Rd Neighbourhood House in Glen Waverley. The Committee is elected, by the KNH Inc. Membership, at the Annual General Meeting. The Committee is responsible for providing transparent and accountable governance and strategy to the House. It also bears ultimate legal responsibility for the organisation.
There is a range of classes including Learn Local courses in digital literacy, bookkeeping and English as an additional language. Other programs include; playgroups, exercise and fitness, children’s activities, French, Italian and Mandarin, creative writing. There is also a range of social groups that meet at the House.
Yarrunga Community Centre
Yarrunga Community Centre is a beautiful multi-purpose building location in Croydon Hill which opened in November 1996. The name means “beneath tall trees” and represents the importance of maintaining the natural environment in an area undergoing rapid urban development. It evokes pictures of people meeting to share and learn in a friendly and welcoming place.
Courses and programs at Yarrunga include; arts and crafts, health and wellbeing, hobbies and general interest, online short courses, and Learn Local pathways courses. Social groups include an older mens group, one for retirees, crafters and book groups.
Alamein Neighbourhood and Learning Centre
Alamein Neighbourhood Learning Centre (ANLC) is a neighbourhood house located in the heart of Ashburton, opposite the Alamein Railway Station. We offer learning and community services to support our local area, residents and visitors to our centre. Alamein offers a wide range of Learn Local courses including Literacy and Numeracy.
Our learning programs are designed to help people build new skills and pursue activities that enrich their lives. Our community services support people to be independent and to be part of their neighbourhood.
We welcome local residents and visitors, members, learners, community groups and volunteers to gather at our friendly neighbourhood centre.
Alamein Neighbourhood Learning Centre acknowledges the people of the Kulin nation as the traditional custodians of Boroondara land and we pay our respects to their Elders, past and present.
Swinburne Skills and Jobs Centre
The Swinburne Skills and Jobs Centre is proud to partner with Learn Local organisations and SwinLocal to support adult learners in our community. Skills and Jobs Centres are funded by the Victorian government to provide a fee-free and impartial careers service to all members in our local communities. Our staff are fully qualified career counsellors with significant experience in vocational education, apprenticeships and local employment. Located at Swinburne’s Croydon and Wantirna campuses, we offer free group workshops and 1:1 consultations with qualified career counsellors. For enquiries and further information and to book a workshop or 1:1 consultation, please email swinburnehub@swin.edu.au or call 9726 1450.
Pines Learning
Pines Learning is a not-for-profit community based organisation located at the Pines Learning and Activity Centre, 1/520 Blackburn Road, Doncaster East. It offers a variety of accredited, non-accredited courses and activities to the community in a friendly environment in a modern facility with professional, caring staff.
It is a Registered Training Organisation (RTO Number 3774) complying with the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations. Pines is also provides a state registered childcare centre for its students and the community. Pines Learning is a member of the Learn Local network. The Centre receives Government funding from local council, state and federal governments.
Formerly known as Donvale Living and Learning Centre, it has been in operation since 1977 providing Adult Community Education and support to the local community. In 2007 the Centre celebrated its 30th year of success and due to continued growth was successfully re-located to a purpose built modern facility and in January 2008 was renamed Pines Learning.
Learn Local courses include; job search skills, business administration, computers, literacy and numeracy and English as an additional language. There is a wide range of other programs including; fitness, exercise, wellbeing, French, Italian, and dance.
Mitcham Community House
Mitcham Community House is a not-for-profit organisation governed by a voluntary Committee of elected community members. It offers a wide range of recreational and educational classes as well as social activities, childcare, playgroups and support programs.
There is off-street parking and Mitcham Railway station is a short walk away. The buildings are wheelchair accessible. All classes are led by experienced and qualified tutors at competitive rates.
Learn Local courses include Auslan, English as an additional language and job searching. Other courses cover art, craft, music, computers, French, Spanish and Chinese. Health and fitness classes are a specialty and there is a range of hobby and special interest groups.
Living and Learning@Ajani
Living and Learning @Ajani is co-located in Templestowe alongside other community services at the Ajani Centre. It includes a café, a pantry and community garden. The vision is to create a healthy, connected, empowered, inclusive and diverse community. Programs for people with a disability are a specialty.