Earlier this year ACFE funded some statewide professional development for ACE teachers and managers working with technologies, and PRACE was invited to lead part of the project. On behalf of PRACE, Michael Chalk met with all the participants at the induction in early May, and since then we have had regular live web conferencing sessions in the ACFE elluminate rooms.
These AccessACE “E-learning circles of professional practice” – also known as research circles – are enabling teachers and managers to join their colleagues in exploring a range of issues, and solving problems in their classrooms. They are a development on the original AccessACE projects of 2007, which PRACE was also involved in.
The Darebin Neighbourhood House Network organised a fundraiser for the Kinglake Neighbourhood House – a film night on October 8th. The film was “Mao’s Last Dancer” and it was at the Palace Theatre in Westgarth.
The film was well attended by people from neighbourhood houses and community centres all around Melbourne’s northern suburbs. Tickets were $20 each with roughly 50% going to the Kinglake House – thanks to everyone who came and enjoyed the film so that Kinglake NH could benefit.
Wonderful news for everyone the Reservoir Neighbourhood House.. the new Neighbourhood House has been completed on schedule and is open to all. You will now find a range of classes, programs and groups for all ages, enjoying the incredible new building with its beautiful design full of space and light. Please come and visit us, at the corner of Cuthbert Road & Strathmerton Street Reservoir.
Stay tuned for the official opening later in the year.
Here below we have a summary of Semester 2 courses on offer at PRACE from July to December 2009. More details here, in your copy of the PRACE Brochure, semester 2 (PDF, 600kb). Please distribute this post throughout your networks, and please contact Ancy on 9462 6077 to further discuss any of scheduled courses.
English as a Second Language*: Day and evening classes, including the Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP 510 hours) and classes for long term residents
Adult Literacy Classes*: Aimed at people who were born in Australia but did not complete their schooling.
Computer Skills (level 1) *: Certificate II in IT units*: Includes flexible learning options (Potential to join at any time)
Gardening for a Sustainable Community: Cert. II in Horticulture *: Includes practical work experience in a community garden (Potential to join at any time)
Getting Ready for Employment: Focus on personal effectiveness, the job network market, resume writing and interview skills
Hospitality short courses*:Food Handling, Barista – Prepare & Serve Espresso Coffee and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA)
Internet & Email *:Introduction to Computers
MYOB: Pre-requisite – Basic computer and bookkeeping skills are essential
TO ENROL OR FOR MORE INFORMATION: Phone 9462 6077, or visit us at the PRACE office at Merrilands Community Centre, Cnr Asquith & Sturdee Sts in Reservoir (maps on the location page).
(Please note that variations have been made to certain computer courses listed.)
All courses are subject to eligibility requirements AND sufficient enrolments.
* These classes are nationally accredited courses within the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA).
On Tuesday the 16th of June at Merrilands Community Centre, the people of PRACE celebrated Refugee Week with stories and demonstrations of tea and coffee around the world. We had:
* Kenyan tea by Elizabeth,
* Greek coffee by Tina and Panayota,
* Indian tea by Surinder, and
* Japanese tea ceremony by Yuko.
Daniel from Fair Trade talked about the coffee trade around the world. In poor countries, farmers do not always get paid. In some places children are working long hours for no money. Fair Trade makes sure that the farmers get enough money for the coffee they grow. Oxfam Australia recommends Fair Trade coffee.
Remember the wonderful community oven launch from last year, when Ima Forni donated a wood-fired oven to the Merrilands Community Centre, and Vasili from Channel 31 came along to film the event? People cooked bread in the oven, people danced and sang together, there was music and feasting. (Story back here.)
Well now’s your chance to see your friends and colleagues on television! Channel 31 screened the show this week, and it’s being repeated Wednesday 6th May at 7.30pm.
If you don’t get Channel 31 on your television, you can find the video on their website at c31.org.au. (Search for “Vasili’s Garden”, and watch the program from 3rd May 09. Could be there for the next 6 weeks.)
It’s a great show, full of interviews with many people in the community, and also featuring Don the amazing horticulture teacher with his students.
Bowling was a wonderful way to start off second term for the VCAL students. This term, they will focus on healthy eating, healthy body, healthy choices. They will be participating in many activities this term including golf, absailing, rock climbing, hip hop dancing, yoga and tai kwondo. It’s going to be a very full and exciting term and everyone is looking forward to getting active and having some fun. Personal Development never looked so good
