Think of a multi-purpose centre that offers flexible access to many services and programs, opportunities to re-engage with or continue learning, early literacy sessions for pre-school children, a summer of fun and a showcase for local art and you have the Huon LINC (Learning and Information Network Centre). Add delivery of VET programs by TAFE and Hobart College, volunteer training and Centrelink and Service Tasmania on site, as well as the Huonville Library+Online and you have a dynamic and unique model. It is a stepping stone to further learning or employment and provides services which are being taken up enthusiastically by residents of the Huon Valley.
The Huon Valley south of Hobart has a population of around 15,000. The regional centre is the town of Huonville, population 1600 - gateway to the Huon Valley. Education and post-school training levels in the valley are below the national average and the area is somewhat economically depressed. It became apparent that it was essential to provide easier access to education and training facilities in the area.
In 1997 Tasmania attracted funding to establish a community-based skill centre at Huonville with an intention to improve retention to Years 11 and 12, and to re-engage early school leavers up to 24 years of age. The pilot was very successful and was extended to 2002. In 2004 the Tasmanian Department of Education was successful in gaining funding to build an innovative service, information and education centre at Huonville.
By November 2005, thanks to a dedicated Steering Committee and a hardworking inaugural Coordinator, the Huon LINC was established as a place where individuals could:
- take low-risk first steps into learning
- build on existing knowledge and skills in order to maximise life chances
- be equipped for work and enterprise.
Now through the Huon LINC communities in the Huon valley are provided with programs, resources and opportunities to:
- develop a community that embraces lifelong learning
- participate in a world of online information
- build and sustain a knowledge and skills base that meets local needs
- foster informed and active citizenship
- strengthen community capacity to respond positively to change.
The facilities are available for hire and are well used by a range of government and community groups. Education and training is offered through providers such as TAFE Tasmania, UTAS (the University of Tasmania), Hobart College VET programs, Adult Education and community training provider, STEPS. Program managers note that the services are reaching people in this rural community who have been difficult to access in the past. The Coordinator liaises with centres such as Geeveston, Cygnet and Dover to develop partnerships with local services and business.
Results are impressive. Borrowing and new patrons at the library have doubled over a period of two years. A band of volunteers support learners, many gaining qualifications themselves along the way. Enrolments and retention in TAFE courses have been among the best in the state, with numbers of students using their introductory courses as a pathway into other TAFE courses. Literacy courses, both group and one-to-one have proved successful and usage at the online access centre has increased.
The Huon LINC is providing a centre where Huon Valley residents can learn, access government services, get information and meet in a modern welcoming environment. It is achieving its intention to build a community in the Huon Valley that is committed to, and can access lifelong learning opportunities.
Distance Education is great because I get support from other people studying and also from the co-ordination team.
- Student taking a TAFE course through distance education.
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