Training
Introduction
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ADULT EDUCATION AND TRAINING
AGWS continues to provide adult literacy classes to older Greek speaking adults across the four Metropolitan Regions of Melbourne. More specifically classes are held in Bentleigh, Brunswick, Doncaster and Sunshine. Funding for AGWS's English classes is provided by the Adult Community and Further Education (ACFE) program, a State Government initiative.
Many of our learners arrived in Australia at a young age and immediately entered employment in factories. They did not have the opportunity for learning the English language and acquiring a proficiency level that would assist them with their daily living.
Our vision is to "empower members of the Greek community to reach their full potential". As a result, AGWS strives to reinforce this through the English classes, by providing an opportunity for learning and along with this the opportunity for socialisation, friendships and support. It is a rewarding experience to observe Greek speaking learners forming friendships and speaking amongst themselves in English in order to further enhance their language skills.
AGWS focuses towards active participation in learning opportunities that reflect and build on the learner's life experiences and aspirations. Learners enhance their skills in better communication and through this process make informed decisions about various aspects in their lives. They are able to participate with greater confidence in the tasks and demands of their daily living. They acquire the basic skills to become more active in society, and through these skills and involvement an increased feeling of achievement and self worth.
The importance of acquiring basic literacy skills as a basis for further learning should not be overlooked. AGWS has considered this and has ensured the delivery of appropriate services in this area, as it encourages learning and active participation in a multicultural and complex society.
Learning is part of a process that assists our learners to achieve the AGWS objective of personal empowerment.
Seventy seven students are currently enrolled in the accredited Certificates of General Education for Adults (CGEA) at Certificate Levels 1 & 2.
Students have participated in several excursions which have enriched their level of interest and competence. Adult Learners' Week provided students with the opportunity to "celebrate" that "it is never too late to learn". Doncaster had dinner at Box Hill TAFE which was prepared by the Hospitality students;
Bentleigh enjoyed lunch with the Greek Club at Moorleigh followed by a video; Brunswick `explored' the Yarra and its precincts and Sunshine ventured to Port Melbourne to relive many migration experiences. Such activities build confidence, expand knowledge and are in line with the requirements of the CGEA
Teaching staff have bi-monthly professional development sessions at Brunswick to ensure quality standards of delivery etc and to discuss and share activities and experiences. Opportunity is also provided for staff to attend professional activities within the various ACFE Regions.
Staff and `fee for service' clients have gained Certificate IV in Assessment and Workplace Training. This is a highly sought after qualification in industry. It enables one to "train" and "assess" others within the workplace.
AGWS is accredited to deliver Cert III in Home and Community Care and Cert III in Aged Care Services. We are in process of extending Scope to deliver further Management and Aged Care programs.
