Bass Coast Adult Learning Wonthaggi

A Message from Joshua Baker, Chief Executive Officer, Workforce Plus

Over the past few weeks, I’ve had the privilege of meeting many of the staff and community members whose lives have been touched by Bass Coast Adult Learning (BCAL). It has become abundantly clear that BCAL has been far more than an education provider. For more than 30 years, it has been a place of belonging, opportunity and connection for the Bass Coast community.

The decision to place BCAL into liquidation and permanently close its doors marks the end of an extraordinary chapter for our community. I recognise the uncertainty this has created for students, staff and the wider community, particularly for those who were partway through their studies or who relied on BCAL as a trusted place to learn, connect and grow.

On behalf of Workforce Plus, I want you to know that we are committed to doing everything reasonably possible to ensure that every student has a pathway forward.

Working closely with the appointed administrators, Workforce Plus has been approved to support the transition of current students. Our immediate priority is to minimise disruption by maintaining continuity of learning wherever possible. This includes engaging with existing BCAL staff so that students can continue learning with familiar educators and retain the trusted relationships that are so important to confidence, participation and success.

Importantly, our commitment extends to every student affected by BCAL’s closure. Where Workforce Plus is able to continue a course or program directly, we will work to ensure students can complete their studies with as little disruption as possible. Where we are unable to deliver a particular course, we are actively assisting students to identify and connect with suitable alternative education providers. Our priority is ensuring that every student has a clear pathway to continue their learning, regardless of who ultimately delivers it. We believe no student should be disadvantaged simply because their education provider has ceased operating.

Our commitment extends beyond supporting current students. We want to ensure that the Bass Coast community continues to have access to meaningful education and training opportunities well into the future. Subject to the necessary approvals and funding, our vision is to re-establish a strong community education presence from the existing site, delivering a broad range of programs including English language classes, Learn Local courses, First Aid, digital literacy, accredited training and other education and employment pathways that respond to the evolving needs of our community.

We also recognise that BCAL’s closure has left many prospective students without a local pathway into education. Workforce Plus is committed to rebuilding those opportunities so that people looking to improve their skills, gain qualifications, learn English, prepare for employment or simply reconnect with learning once again have access to high-quality community education close to home.

While we have the experience, capability and commitment to deliver these services, securing the funding required to do so remains one of our greatest challenges. We are actively engaging with government, philanthropic organisations and community partners to secure the resources needed to continue these important programs and restore education opportunities to Bass Coast as quickly as possible.

As a registered charity, Workforce Plus exists to create opportunities for people and communities. We believe education changes lives, strengthens communities and creates pathways to employment, independence, confidence and belonging.

BCAL has built an extraordinary legacy over more than three decades. Our goal is not to replace that legacy, but to honour it by ensuring that learning, opportunity and community connection continue for the people of Bass Coast. We are committed to working alongside students, staff, local government, community organisations and funding partners to ensure that the closure of one organisation does not mean the end of community education in Bass Coast.

Thank you for your patience, understanding and trust during this transition. We look forward to working with the community, current students, existing BCAL staff and future learners as we build the next chapter together, one that provides certainty, opportunity and lasting pathways for everyone who calls Bass Coast home.

Joshua Baker
Chief Executive Officer
Workforce Plus

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live, learn and work, and pay our respects to their Elders past and present. We recognise and respect the continuing connection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to land, waters, culture, and community.

In our learning environment, we are committed to fostering respect, inclusion, and cultural safety for all learners. We value the knowledge, traditions, and contributions of First Nations peoples and recognise their important role in shaping education and community. We extend this respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, staff, and community members, and acknowledge their ongoing contributions to our shared learning journey

Child Safety

Bass Coast Adult Learning is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive environment for all children and young people participating in our education and training programs. We have zero tolerance for child abuse, harm, or neglect and are dedicated to acting in the best interests of every child and young person.