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Latest news
Horticulture industry excursion
Are you interested in connecting with Horticulture industry experts? Enrol now for Cert III Horticulture July intake. Last week students toured several nurseries, starting with Mansfield’s Propagation Nursery, a major supplier for Bunnings and independent retailers. As the students have been studying the Manage Nursery Plants unit, this visit provided a valuable opportunity to see the inner workings of a professional nursery.
Lauren, a dedicated Mansfield’s employee, led the group though the intricates of the plant propagation process. Students observed workers taking cuttings, applying rooting hormone, and placing them in soil-filled fabric containers. These were then moved to a temperature-controlled greenhouse to develop roots before being transitioned outdoors under shade cloth for repotting and further growth.
Brey from the tissue culture lab discussed plant propagation and the importance of biosecurity, while Lauren explained Mansfield’s water filtration and recycling system.
After the nursery tour, the group visited Plantmark, a wholesale nursery in Langwarrin, where they explored a vast selection of plants and learned about wholesale operations.
Their final stop was GardenWorld in Keysborough, known for its unique and exotic plants, including bonsai, succulents, orchids, and carnivorous species.
By day's end, the students returned to BCAL, having gained valuable industry insights and an enjoyable learning experience.
Lauren, a dedicated Mansfield’s employee, led the group though the intricates of the plant propagation process. Students observed workers taking cuttings, applying rooting hormone, and placing them in soil-filled fabric containers. These were then moved to a temperature-controlled greenhouse to develop roots before being transitioned outdoors under shade cloth for repotting and further growth.
Brey from the tissue culture lab discussed plant propagation and the importance of biosecurity, while Lauren explained Mansfield’s water filtration and recycling system.
After the nursery tour, the group visited Plantmark, a wholesale nursery in Langwarrin, where they explored a vast selection of plants and learned about wholesale operations.
Their final stop was GardenWorld in Keysborough, known for its unique and exotic plants, including bonsai, succulents, orchids, and carnivorous species.
By day's end, the students returned to BCAL, having gained valuable industry insights and an enjoyable learning experience.
BCAL shines at the Careers & Community Expo
Alana and Bill recently attended the Careers & Community Expo at Bass Coast Specialist School, connecting with students and families about the exciting learning opportunities we offer.
It was a fantastic day filled with great conversations, hands-on fun, and a delicious family BBQ provided by the school. At our BCAL table, visitors could pick up brochures and flyers about our courses, create their own, and enjoy some novelty gifts and sweet treats.
The expo was a wonderful opportunity to showcase what’s available at BCAL and inspire students to explore their learning and career pathways. We loved being part of it and can’t wait to welcome some new faces soon.
It was a fantastic day filled with great conversations, hands-on fun, and a delicious family BBQ provided by the school. At our BCAL table, visitors could pick up brochures and flyers about our courses, create their own, and enjoy some novelty gifts and sweet treats.
The expo was a wonderful opportunity to showcase what’s available at BCAL and inspire students to explore their learning and career pathways. We loved being part of it and can’t wait to welcome some new faces soon.
Celebrating Harmony Day with culture, food, and tradition
We all came together to celebrate Harmony Day with our Migrant English students, sharing the rich flavours of their diverse backgrounds. Students prepared and enjoyed delicious traditional dishes, wrote and read heartfelt poetry, and proudly wore orange or traditional clothing representing their first home countries.
An example of their poetry is:
Harmony brings joy
A lot of us together
Raising Awareness
Makes our world one
Now is the time
You can make a difference
An example of their poetry is:
Harmony brings joy
A lot of us together
Raising Awareness
Makes our world one
Now is the time
You can make a difference
A brand new BCAL website is coming
We’re thrilled to announce that we will be launching a brand-new website soon. Our updated site will offer improved accessibility, better functionality, and exciting new features to make your BCAL experience even smoother.
One of the biggest upgrades. You’ll soon be able to sign up for courses with just a few clicks. Plus, finding course details, news, and community updates will be easier than ever.
Stay tuned for the official launch – we can’t wait to share it with you!
One of the biggest upgrades. You’ll soon be able to sign up for courses with just a few clicks. Plus, finding course details, news, and community updates will be easier than ever.
Stay tuned for the official launch – we can’t wait to share it with you!
Connecting and Collaborating in the West
Recently Olivia, our Care and Support Industry Practice Network Coordinator, had the privilege of meeting with our counterparts in the West. She was able to present at the ACFE regional meetings held in Geelong, Werribee, and Ararat – three vibrant communities making a real impact in adult education.
During these meetings, Olivia saw firsthand the incredible work being done by Learn Locals in the region, strengthening access to education and support for local communities. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with those who are at the forefront of learning and development in the area. In addition to the presentations, Olivia also gained valuable insights into the work of the Skills and Jobs Centres Victoria and the Wurreker Brokers from VAEAI. The exchange of knowledge and experiences was truly inspiring, and it’s clear that everyone involved is passionate about making a meaningful difference.
We are grateful for the chance to collaborate with such dedicated individuals and organisations, and we look forward to continuing to work together to support and empower adult learners across the state.
During these meetings, Olivia saw firsthand the incredible work being done by Learn Locals in the region, strengthening access to education and support for local communities. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with those who are at the forefront of learning and development in the area. In addition to the presentations, Olivia also gained valuable insights into the work of the Skills and Jobs Centres Victoria and the Wurreker Brokers from VAEAI. The exchange of knowledge and experiences was truly inspiring, and it’s clear that everyone involved is passionate about making a meaningful difference.
We are grateful for the chance to collaborate with such dedicated individuals and organisations, and we look forward to continuing to work together to support and empower adult learners across the state.
Sopha’s Journey: From Migrant to Health Support Worker
Sopha moved to Australia 10 years ago, never imagining she’d work in a hospital, let alone in aged care. But after completing a pre-accredited Health Support Services course at BCAL, she now works as a cleaner at Wonthaggi Hospital, ensuring elderly patients have a clean and safe environment.
“The course gave me the confidence to improve my reading, writing, and even use a laptop,” says Sopha. “It helped me understand how things work here and what I can do to help.” Despite the challenges of raising three children and adjusting to a new culture, Sopha persevered, completing her Health Support Services course, which covered hygiene, infection control, and basic patient care.
With the support of BCAL and her family, Sopha landed her current role at Wonthaggi Hospital, where she applies her infection control and hygiene knowledge to ensure a safe environment for elderly patients. “Sopha’s attention to detail has made her a valuable part of our class,” says her trainer, Harriet. “She practiced interview skills in the Be Work Ready class and aced her job interview.”
Though Sopha is proud of her accomplishments, she’s also thinking ahead. She hopes to continue her studies and pursue a Certificate III in Individual Support to work as a Personal Care Attendant.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved,” says Sopha. “It feels good to know I’m doing something that matters. I’m excited to see where this path will take me.”
Sopha’s story shows that with determination, education, and support, migrant learners can create new opportunities and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
“The course gave me the confidence to improve my reading, writing, and even use a laptop,” says Sopha. “It helped me understand how things work here and what I can do to help.” Despite the challenges of raising three children and adjusting to a new culture, Sopha persevered, completing her Health Support Services course, which covered hygiene, infection control, and basic patient care.
With the support of BCAL and her family, Sopha landed her current role at Wonthaggi Hospital, where she applies her infection control and hygiene knowledge to ensure a safe environment for elderly patients. “Sopha’s attention to detail has made her a valuable part of our class,” says her trainer, Harriet. “She practiced interview skills in the Be Work Ready class and aced her job interview.”
Though Sopha is proud of her accomplishments, she’s also thinking ahead. She hopes to continue her studies and pursue a Certificate III in Individual Support to work as a Personal Care Attendant.
“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved,” says Sopha. “It feels good to know I’m doing something that matters. I’m excited to see where this path will take me.”
Sopha’s story shows that with determination, education, and support, migrant learners can create new opportunities and build a brighter future for themselves and their families.
Celebrateability: A Joyful Celebration at BCAL
BCAL recently hosted its annual International Day of People with Disability celebration, known as 'Celebrateability.' The event was a vibrant showcase of inclusion, joy, and community spirit, highlighting the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities.
One of the key attractions was the lively performance by the band Snakes and Eagles, brought to us by Interchange. Their music resonated with the audience, setting a festive tone for the day. The band’s energy and passion for music were truly infectious, encouraging everyone to join in and celebrate the spirit of unity and diversity.
Following the musical performance, attendees enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch, expertly prepared and cooked by BCAL participants.
The festivities concluded with an exhilarating colour run, a favourite among participants. Amidst bursts of vibrant colours, laughter, and cheers, participants ran, walked, or danced their way through the course. The colour run was not only a fun activity but also a symbolic representation of the diverse and colorful community we celebrate.
Celebrateability at BCAL was a day filled with laughter, music, and memorable moments. It served as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the joy that comes from celebrating our differences. We look forward to next year’s event and continuing to build a community that embraces and supports everyone.
One of the key attractions was the lively performance by the band Snakes and Eagles, brought to us by Interchange. Their music resonated with the audience, setting a festive tone for the day. The band’s energy and passion for music were truly infectious, encouraging everyone to join in and celebrate the spirit of unity and diversity.
Following the musical performance, attendees enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch, expertly prepared and cooked by BCAL participants.
The festivities concluded with an exhilarating colour run, a favourite among participants. Amidst bursts of vibrant colours, laughter, and cheers, participants ran, walked, or danced their way through the course. The colour run was not only a fun activity but also a symbolic representation of the diverse and colorful community we celebrate.
Celebrateability at BCAL was a day filled with laughter, music, and memorable moments. It served as a reminder of the importance of inclusivity and the joy that comes from celebrating our differences. We look forward to next year’s event and continuing to build a community that embraces and supports everyone.
Introducing 'Be Work Ready' – Your path to job success!
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our Be Work Ready course, designed to help individuals prepare for job applications across a variety of industries. Whether you’re looking to enter healthcare, aged care, or any other field, this course equips you with the skills and confidence to apply for jobs and stand out in today’s competitive job market.
Be Work Ready is often used as an extension to other training programs. For example, following the completion of our Health Support Services course, participants recently benefited from Be Work Ready to refine their job applications, boost their interview skills, and gain insight into the expectations of employers in the healthcare and aged care sectors.
This course covers resume building, cover letter writing, interview preparation, and much more. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your training and prepare for the next step in your career. If you’re finishing a course or ready to take on a new career, Be Work Ready is here to help you make your next move a success!
Be Work Ready is often used as an extension to other training programs. For example, following the completion of our Health Support Services course, participants recently benefited from Be Work Ready to refine their job applications, boost their interview skills, and gain insight into the expectations of employers in the healthcare and aged care sectors.
This course covers resume building, cover letter writing, interview preparation, and much more. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your training and prepare for the next step in your career. If you’re finishing a course or ready to take on a new career, Be Work Ready is here to help you make your next move a success!
Learn Local Innovation Award
We were honoured with the Learn Local Innovation Award for the Workplace Communication Project created in partnership with Capeview Building Products and Coldon Homes.
The award recognised the program’s creative approach to delivering industry-specific training, empowering participants with skills tailored to the construction sector.
Minister Gayle Tierney presented the award to Daryl, the course’s dedicated facilitator, who earned praise for his commitment and resilience in delivering the program. “This award is a testament to teamwork and determination,” said BCAL Centre Manager David Leslie. “Congratulations to Partnership Co-ordinator Olivia, whose groundwork laid the foundation for this success, and to Daryl.”
BCAL extends heartfelt thanks to all involved in this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to continuing its innovative work to support learners and local industries.
Contact us for more information about Workplace Communication training.
The award recognised the program’s creative approach to delivering industry-specific training, empowering participants with skills tailored to the construction sector.
Minister Gayle Tierney presented the award to Daryl, the course’s dedicated facilitator, who earned praise for his commitment and resilience in delivering the program. “This award is a testament to teamwork and determination,” said BCAL Centre Manager David Leslie. “Congratulations to Partnership Co-ordinator Olivia, whose groundwork laid the foundation for this success, and to Daryl.”
BCAL extends heartfelt thanks to all involved in this well-deserved achievement and looks forward to continuing its innovative work to support learners and local industries.
Contact us for more information about Workplace Communication training.
Explore Care and Support Pathways
Are you interested in face-to-face courses in aged care, disability, early childhood and health support services?
Through partnerships with TAFE Gippsland and other organisations, we offer flexible programs to assist local students.
The Health Support Services course provides various opportunities, including networking with guest speakers, building interview confidence, exploring traineeship pathways, and enhancing literacy and computer skills.
In collaboration with Chisholm TAFE, we are currently developing Early Childhood Education traineeships.
Recognising the shortage of staff in Aged Care, BCAL is partnering with the Selmar Institute of Education. Upon completing the Aged Care pathway course, students will have the chance to apply for the online Certificate III in Individual Support, which includes practical experience in a local Aged Care facility.
Through partnerships with TAFE Gippsland and other organisations, we offer flexible programs to assist local students.
The Health Support Services course provides various opportunities, including networking with guest speakers, building interview confidence, exploring traineeship pathways, and enhancing literacy and computer skills.
In collaboration with Chisholm TAFE, we are currently developing Early Childhood Education traineeships.
Recognising the shortage of staff in Aged Care, BCAL is partnering with the Selmar Institute of Education. Upon completing the Aged Care pathway course, students will have the chance to apply for the online Certificate III in Individual Support, which includes practical experience in a local Aged Care facility.
Learning all about the health industry
The Health Support Services course is progressing exceptionally well, with our cohort of 14 students demonstrating impressive enthusiasm and engagement. This course aims to provide insights into career paths within the health support sector.
Our students are not only deepening their understanding of potential career opportunities but are also actively shaping their professional journeys. The inclusion of guest speakers and site visits has proven to be highly beneficial. These real-world interactions equip students with practical knowledge and help them in making informed decisions about their future roles.
We are also offering personalised support in resume building and interview skills, thanks to the expertise of job professionals. This tailored assistance is helping students enhance their applications and prepare effectively for interviews.
The course will be offered again in 2025. Additionally, BCAL provides similar pathway programs in the Care and Support sector, including Childcare, Aged Care, and Disability Support. For further information head to
Our students are not only deepening their understanding of potential career opportunities but are also actively shaping their professional journeys. The inclusion of guest speakers and site visits has proven to be highly beneficial. These real-world interactions equip students with practical knowledge and help them in making informed decisions about their future roles.
We are also offering personalised support in resume building and interview skills, thanks to the expertise of job professionals. This tailored assistance is helping students enhance their applications and prepare effectively for interviews.
The course will be offered again in 2025. Additionally, BCAL provides similar pathway programs in the Care and Support sector, including Childcare, Aged Care, and Disability Support. For further information head to
Industry Tasters
Join us for our Hairdressing and Horticulture Taster Days. For only $50 over two informative and engaging days, you’ll receive a sneak peek into both the Certificate courses launching in 2025.
In Hairdressing, you’ll have the opportunity to practice on fellow classmates, friends, family, and manikin heads—perfect for trying out different hairstyles and techniques.
The Horticulture interactive, hands-on taster sessions will include propagation, pruning, plant selection, garden design and soil testing.
If you’re considering a future in these fields, come along on Wed 13 & 20 November for both Horticulture and Salon Assistant and take the first step towards a new career!
Find out more:
In Hairdressing, you’ll have the opportunity to practice on fellow classmates, friends, family, and manikin heads—perfect for trying out different hairstyles and techniques.
The Horticulture interactive, hands-on taster sessions will include propagation, pruning, plant selection, garden design and soil testing.
If you’re considering a future in these fields, come along on Wed 13 & 20 November for both Horticulture and Salon Assistant and take the first step towards a new career!
Find out more:
Adult Learners Week
BCAL marked Adult Learners Week with an emphasis on the significance of lifelong learning, highlighting that it is not only important but also enjoyable. Each class had the opportunity to demonstrate their learning to fellow students and participants. Migrant English students shared a quote about themselves in their native language and then translated it to English.
Spider plant workshops were presented by Horticulture students, an AI demonstration by the IT class, hair braiding, a captivating original song performed by music students that had the entire audience singing along, portraits showcased by the Photography class, mouth-watering traditional dishes prepared by the Migrant English class, and delicious desserts created by the Capacity Building participants.
Spider plant workshops were presented by Horticulture students, an AI demonstration by the IT class, hair braiding, a captivating original song performed by music students that had the entire audience singing along, portraits showcased by the Photography class, mouth-watering traditional dishes prepared by the Migrant English class, and delicious desserts created by the Capacity Building participants.
Science Fair Winners
When the Bass Coast Community Foundation hosted a Science Expo at the Town Hall, the Reading, Writing and Maths class decided to enter. Their participation paid off as they won the Post Secondary section! Each student received a t-shirt with science logos or a cap, along with a share of $200, while BCAL was awarded a $100 prize.
The literacy and numeracy class is filled with enquiring minds! Science is often described as being about asking questions rather than knowing all the answers, and these students embody that spirit. One day, they noticed a puddle caused by a teabag string hanging out of a cup. Instead of simply cleaning it up, they were curious to understand why it happened. They connected this observation with other surface tension experiments they had conducted. Spectators at the Expo enjoyed interacting with Jaide's volcano experiment, adding baking soda, vinegar, and red food dye to create an eruption. They also learned about how 'germs' can be destroyed by products like Morning Fresh, with colourful posters illustrating diseases caused by germs, such as measles and anthrax.
To join this great course head to...
The literacy and numeracy class is filled with enquiring minds! Science is often described as being about asking questions rather than knowing all the answers, and these students embody that spirit. One day, they noticed a puddle caused by a teabag string hanging out of a cup. Instead of simply cleaning it up, they were curious to understand why it happened. They connected this observation with other surface tension experiments they had conducted. Spectators at the Expo enjoyed interacting with Jaide's volcano experiment, adding baking soda, vinegar, and red food dye to create an eruption. They also learned about how 'germs' can be destroyed by products like Morning Fresh, with colourful posters illustrating diseases caused by germs, such as measles and anthrax.
To join this great course head to...
Winter Fantasy Festival
The inaugural Winter Fantasy Festival at BCAL was a creative and community-driven event, led by art teacher Camille Monet. The festival aimed to foster community connections and offer a fun and creative experience.
Participants from Camille's art classes showcased intricate costumes made from repurposed materials, embodying fantasy versions of fairy tale characters. One participant, Shelley, honoured her late brother by dressing as Groot, appreciating how the art class fosters her creativity.
The event featured collaboration among various BCAL groups, with hairdressing students crafting bold styles and photography and art students exhibiting their fantasy-themed works.
Dr. James Chong emphasised the festival's theme of living in the moment in his speech. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious foods, and the band Eagles and Snakes provided entertainment, with BCAL participant Jade captivating the audience with her singing.
Camille Monet plans to expand the festival to the public next year, promising an even larger and more exciting event.
Participants from Camille's art classes showcased intricate costumes made from repurposed materials, embodying fantasy versions of fairy tale characters. One participant, Shelley, honoured her late brother by dressing as Groot, appreciating how the art class fosters her creativity.
The event featured collaboration among various BCAL groups, with hairdressing students crafting bold styles and photography and art students exhibiting their fantasy-themed works.
Dr. James Chong emphasised the festival's theme of living in the moment in his speech. Attendees enjoyed a variety of delicious foods, and the band Eagles and Snakes provided entertainment, with BCAL participant Jade captivating the audience with her singing.
Camille Monet plans to expand the festival to the public next year, promising an even larger and more exciting event.
Edible Gardens - February 2025
Hibernating gardeners, it’s time to emerge and start planning and planting now for a harvest of fabulous summer and autumn food. BCAL's Bass Coast Edible Gardens team is starting the hunt for 15 inspiring gardens and gardeners, across Bass Coast, to participate in our showcase event on 8 and 9 February 2025.
Growing food gardens requires hard work and planning. Producing an open gardens event requires recruiting gardens, promoting the event, organising volunteers, and more. Bass Coast Edible Gardens is our major fundraiser and the working group is looking for people to lend a hand in these tasks. If you’re interested in helping out or want to showcase your garden email bceg@bcal.vic.edu.au
Growing food gardens requires hard work and planning. Producing an open gardens event requires recruiting gardens, promoting the event, organising volunteers, and more. Bass Coast Edible Gardens is our major fundraiser and the working group is looking for people to lend a hand in these tasks. If you’re interested in helping out or want to showcase your garden email bceg@bcal.vic.edu.au
New Course Offers Pathways into Health Services Employment
Bass Coast Adult Learning is launching an exciting new course aimed at preparing adults for entry-level positions within the health services sector. Titled "Get Ready to Work in Health Services," the course promises to equip participants with essential skills and knowledge required for various non-clinical roles in hospitals and healthcare centres.
Scheduled to commence on Friday August 23rd, the 10-week program will run every Friday from 10am to 3pm. Designed to cater to individuals seeking employment opportunities without formal qualifications, the course will cover a wide range of topics crucial to succeeding in roles such as food services, cleaning, facilities maintenance, medical reception, hospital attendants, and environmental services.
Participants will delve into practical subjects including safe food handling, infection control measures, and effective workplace communication specific to healthcare environments. The curriculum also includes sessions dedicated to understanding job descriptions, improving application processes, and networking with local health service professionals to enhance job prospects.
"Get Ready to Work in Health Services" goes beyond basic job readiness by exploring potential career pathways within the sector, such as advancing into roles like theatre technician through further education and training opportunities. Guest speakers, seasoned in various aspects of health services employment, will share insights and tips to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
"This course is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in starting a career in the health services field," said Olivia Hurrell, Course Coordinator at Bass Coast Adult Learning. "Whether you're looking for part-time, casual, or flexible employment options, this program will equip you with the skills and connections needed to succeed."
Enrolment for the course is currently open, and interested individuals are encouraged to secure their place early due to limited availability. To enrol or for more information, prospective participants can https://www.bcal.vic.edu.au or contact the office on 5672 3115.
By offering practical training, industry insights, and networking opportunities, "Get Ready to Work in Health Services" aims to empower local adults with the tools needed to embark on a rewarding career path in the thriving healthcare sector.
Scheduled to commence on Friday August 23rd, the 10-week program will run every Friday from 10am to 3pm. Designed to cater to individuals seeking employment opportunities without formal qualifications, the course will cover a wide range of topics crucial to succeeding in roles such as food services, cleaning, facilities maintenance, medical reception, hospital attendants, and environmental services.
Participants will delve into practical subjects including safe food handling, infection control measures, and effective workplace communication specific to healthcare environments. The curriculum also includes sessions dedicated to understanding job descriptions, improving application processes, and networking with local health service professionals to enhance job prospects.
"Get Ready to Work in Health Services" goes beyond basic job readiness by exploring potential career pathways within the sector, such as advancing into roles like theatre technician through further education and training opportunities. Guest speakers, seasoned in various aspects of health services employment, will share insights and tips to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the industry.
"This course is an excellent opportunity for anyone interested in starting a career in the health services field," said Olivia Hurrell, Course Coordinator at Bass Coast Adult Learning. "Whether you're looking for part-time, casual, or flexible employment options, this program will equip you with the skills and connections needed to succeed."
Enrolment for the course is currently open, and interested individuals are encouraged to secure their place early due to limited availability. To enrol or for more information, prospective participants can https://www.bcal.vic.edu.au or contact the office on 5672 3115.
By offering practical training, industry insights, and networking opportunities, "Get Ready to Work in Health Services" aims to empower local adults with the tools needed to embark on a rewarding career path in the thriving healthcare sector.
Garden Gems
We are thrilled to see the 2024 Garden Gems workshop series going so well. Proudly brought to you by Bass Coast Shire Council in partnership with Bass Coast Adult Learning, this exciting program aims to cultivate a culture of sustainability, health, and community connection through the joy of gardening. The feedback from our inaugural workshops has been overwhelmingly positive, exceeding participants' expectations across the board. Attendees have praised the workshops for being enjoyable, entertaining, and highly educational, with a focus on practical, low-cost solutions to establish diverse and healthy garden systems. Many expressed newfound confidence in composting and worm farming, areas often clouded by conflicting advice. Here are just a few of the glowing remarks we've received: · "Really enjoyable, entertaining and educational - with emphasis on easy, low-cost solutions and establishing diversity and health in a garden system. Thanks Rick!" · "Thanks so much. This workshop demystified composting and worm farming - I now feel confident to have a go!" · "The workshop was very well organised at PICO with relevant materials to support the activity and education on the day. Rick Coleman presented in a very down-to-earth manner with a practical demonstration." · "This workshop was so informative and interesting; delivered in an easy-to-understand way with encouragement every step of the way. It instilled a strong desire to extend my own attempts at keeping a worm farm and creating compost. Rick has a delightful way of sharing his wealth of knowledge." · "Excellent workshop with very interesting information and a very knowledgeable speaker. Entertaining, informative and fun. Highly recommend." It's not too late to join us for future Garden Gems workshops! Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, there's something for everyone. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enrich your gardening skills and connect with fellow community members. Click the link below to register for upcoming workshops and embark on your journey with Garden Gems.
Begin your horticulture career this July
A certificate in horticulture offers skills beyond gardening, including garden design and plant advice, propagation, sustainable practices, and research skills. Student Shaye says she's become obsessed with seed collecting and planting them wherever she goes.
There is a large outdoor classroom (as well as an indoor one) with raised garden beds, where they grow produce and plants to attract pollinators. There's also a pond, a native plant garden and a polyhouse. Students engage in practical learning with outdoor gardens and a polyhouse. “I'm a keen gardener already,” says horticulture student Diana, “but I have been astonished by how much more I've learned.”
There is a large outdoor classroom (as well as an indoor one) with raised garden beds, where they grow produce and plants to attract pollinators. There's also a pond, a native plant garden and a polyhouse. Students engage in practical learning with outdoor gardens and a polyhouse. “I'm a keen gardener already,” says horticulture student Diana, “but I have been astonished by how much more I've learned.”
Migrant English excursion
Recently the Migrant English students went on an excursion to the National Gallery of Victoria. The students loved the social experience of travelling together on the mini bus to Melbourne and chatted and laughed all the way. They saw works from China, India, Korea, and South-East Asia as well as Japanese Art and works from Britain and Europe of the 13th-16th Century. They were lucky to have a beautiful Autumn day. It was fun to see the students fitting in so well with all the Melbourne folk. Lots to see!
Partnership for success
We are excited to announce a recent partnership project with Coldon Homes and Capeview Building Products. Together, we delivered workplace communication and leadership training. This collaboration was developed to enhance the skills and effectiveness of employees within the local building industry, fostering better communication, teamwork, and leadership within the workplace. BCAL has a longstanding commitment to providing high-quality adult education and training programs to the community. With a focus on lifelong learning and professional development, BCAL offers a range of courses designed to meet the diverse needs of learners across various industries. Coldon Homes and Capeview Building Products are respected names in the local building sector, known for their commitment to excellence and innovation. Recognising the importance of investing in the development of its workforce, Coldon Homes and Capeview Building Products sought out opportunities to enhance employee skills and capabilities.
English & Maths
Reading, Writing and Maths for Life Teacher, Annie Chisholm, takes our reading, writing and maths for life classes. She likes to write an email to each student when at home. Recently, Annie asked students to reply, outlining the topic that they enjoyed the most. Here are some of the answers: • My favourite class was when I got introduced to Free Rice. My favourite thing about Free Rice is that you can learn different types of languages. My favourite language is German because my Aunty Connie is German and my cousin Axel is starting to learn more words in German. I like that I can do my schoolwork at home. The best bit of class is Show and Tell and News. (Jaide) • One class I really remember is when Annie showed us how to do a science experiment using a bowl filled with water and pepper sprinkled on top. Then you put washing detergent on your index finger and touch the water. The chemical reaction (surface tension) causes the pepper to spread outwards, it is very interesting to watch. (Pece) • One class I really remember is the egg experiment class where we put an egg into a glass of water and covered them over with vinegar and food colouring and then let them sit for a week to see what would happen to them. After the week the result was the shell of the eggs went slightly soft and transparent and had taken on a pinky-red colour from the food colouring. (Vael) • I’m new to your class, so I wasn’t here for all these activities. So I’d like to share that in year 9, my favourite activity was the play. It was about the history of dinosaurs and volcanoes. We choreographed a dance and sang songs about volcanoes and dinosaurs. (Summer)
Harmony Day Celebrations
Bass Coast celebrated its cultural diversity with a successful turnout for Harmony Day in Wonthaggi. The event saw a diverse mix of local organisations, schools, migrant and refugee groups, and community members in attendance. Steve Parker performed a Welcome to Country and a smoking ceremony before the group paraded down the main street to Wonthaggi Neighbourhood Centre at Mitchell House.
Attendees provided a variety of multicultural foods representing different cultural backgrounds. Mayor Clare Le Serve of Bass Coast Shire expressed gratitude to everyone for being part of such a significant day.
Moo Kyi, a migrant from Thailand, shared her experience of the warm welcome she received from the local community. She is a former BCAL Migrant English student and is currently an employee at Rose Lodge. The ABC Back Roads program captured the event, and we eagerly anticipate watching their coverage on television soon.
Attendees provided a variety of multicultural foods representing different cultural backgrounds. Mayor Clare Le Serve of Bass Coast Shire expressed gratitude to everyone for being part of such a significant day.
Moo Kyi, a migrant from Thailand, shared her experience of the warm welcome she received from the local community. She is a former BCAL Migrant English student and is currently an employee at Rose Lodge. The ABC Back Roads program captured the event, and we eagerly anticipate watching their coverage on television soon.
Climate Collaboration meeting
Energy Innovation Co-operative Ltd recently hosted its first Climate Collaboration gathering, bringing together 16 organisations from various sectors such as manufacturing, environmental groups, education, renewable energy, government, and tourism.
Leaders from diverse fields united to envision a more sustainable future for the Gippsland region.
The event highlighted talks on community resilience, energy education, and emerging innovative technologies in Gippsland. Special focus was given to educational initiatives reaching all community members, from older individuals to primary and secondary school students.
Leaders from diverse fields united to envision a more sustainable future for the Gippsland region.
The event highlighted talks on community resilience, energy education, and emerging innovative technologies in Gippsland. Special focus was given to educational initiatives reaching all community members, from older individuals to primary and secondary school students.
Rhyll excursion
The Migrant English class went to Rhyll Wetlands and participated in an art work entitled INSCRIPTION. Students worked with artist Carmel Wallace on a 100m long canvas ‘path’ that is used to provide a pathway to contemplate of aspects of local environments.
Each time the INSCRIPTION 'path' is unrolled and walked upon, markings, memories, and stories of the particular place are embedded in it, enriching the previous layers and forming a palimpsest.
For exhibition it is hung in the form of a heartbeat-reading in acknowledgment of the essential role of natural environments for personal, community and climate health. It was a magical experience for all involved.
Each time the INSCRIPTION 'path' is unrolled and walked upon, markings, memories, and stories of the particular place are embedded in it, enriching the previous layers and forming a palimpsest.
For exhibition it is hung in the form of a heartbeat-reading in acknowledgment of the essential role of natural environments for personal, community and climate health. It was a magical experience for all involved.
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