Community
15 May, 2024
Pilot program launches in Simpson
A NEW pilot program got under way in Simpson last week giving new residents a chance to practice conversational English.
Simpson and District Community Centre coordinator Debra Smith helped spearhead the new program which launched last Thursday.
She said the pilot program was called ‘Belong: Unlocking the Potential of our Diverse Community’.
Mrs Smith said she was pleased with the turn out at the launch.
“It (the morning) was to celebrate Cultura coming on board as a partner with Belonging: Unlocking the Potential of our Diverse Community project – known locally as Conversational English Workshops,” she said.
“There was lots of networking and conversations started which will hopefully lead to sustainability of the program and introduction of extra workshop content.
“The workshops touch on far more than just English speaking skills and aim to enhance the participants employment, employability and their life in Australia.
“It was great to have some feedback from employers and be able to connect with them to find out what they need as well as focusing on what the participants need.”
The event included the official unveiling of the pilot project, brief presentations on objectives of the project, looking at the history of migration in the Corangamite region and networking opportunities.
Mrs Smith said the program started last year as Conversational English.
“Amanda Poustie approached the centre to see if we knew of anything running or could help set something up as she had noticed a big increase in the number of migrant workers in the area with little or no English speaking skills,” she said.
“After some research our program launched, led by Amanda and a group of amazing volunteers, with six people attending the first session.
“We quickly found out that the need is far more reaching than English skills, so we have touched on first aid and driving skills and will continue to expand the program while the need is there.”
The project is a collaboration between Cultura and Simpson and District Community Centre, under the auspices of the Department of Families Fairness and Housing Victoria.
The program is set to outreach to Timboon from May 23.
Mrs Smith said there were plans to incorporate things like driving lessons, water safety, farm safety, chemical users and more in the future.
“Simpson workshops will continue to run on Thursday mornings from 10.30am,” she said.
“The learning is definitely two way with volunteers and participants taking something away from each session.
“Anyone wanting to support the program or interested in sending their workers along should give us a call; we have an open door policy with all welcome.”
For further information about the project or to get involved contact Debra Smith at the Simpson and District Community Centre on 5594 3448.
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