Adult Literacy at Allara

During the PCP process it was determined there was a need for an Adult Literacy Program that focused solely on intense individualised learning for a number of our clients. Many calls to attempt to access a suitable Community Adult Education in literacy, ascertained that Community West in Deer Park offered a course, but could not cater for our numbers, due to their facility not being large enough. After many discussions, it was agreed it seemed the main hurdle was a venue with the capacity to cater for the students already enrolled for 2012. We were very determined to see this project succeed, and realised that we had the room needed at our facility.

Community West put forward the prospective plan to one of their teachers, who was very excited to pursue this project.

Allara is now the venue for this course which consists of five community members and 14 service users from Allara, Braybrook, and the Get Ready Program.

Adult Literacy operates on a Wednesday, and is an all day program (9.30-2.30).

All participants are assessed to determine their individual levels and goals, and a qualified teacher formulates the curriculum to meet these needs.

This program also consists of three or four Facilitators (depending on weekly numbers) and three community volunteers. This ensures 1:1 assistance can be given when required throughout the day.

A call for donations of readers and other suitable books resulted in the program now having its own Library, from which participants can choose books of interest, when they have completed their tasks.

The reports coming through from the teacher (Kate) families and the individuals is extremely positive, and the interest has grown, which will see 2012 offering two full day courses.