Category: Partnerships

Long Journeys is a creative project involving students from BCAL’s English as an Additional Language (EAL) program. Our EAL learners come from countries including Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia and Timor Leste, bringing rich cultural experiences to the work.

The project is inspired by Maree Clarke’s glass canoe, Yawa — meaning ‘Long Journey’ in Boonwurrung language — which is installed at Berninneit, Cowes. Guided by Dr Laura Brearley and teachers Daryl Pellizzer and Anny Bevan, and volunteers, students wrote poetry on the theme of long journeys, which was then developed into musical and rhythmic pieces. Their work explores themes of Migration & New Beginnings, Connection to Place (Country), Nature’s Rhythms & Cycles, Hidden Worlds & Discovery and Storytelling & Expression.

A special thank you to the photographers and to film-maker Terry Melvin for documenting the Long Journeys experience. This project is proudly funded through a Community Grant from Bass Coast Shire Council.

Our Health Support Services learners recently enjoyed a fantastic behind-the-scenes tour at Bass Coast Hospital. They were grateful for the time given by busy hospital staff. This course, provides knowledge and skills for entry level roles at the hospital.

The tour gave great insight into the work of the Environmental Services Manager, who looks after Food Services (including Meals on Wheels and Tea Trolley Service), Linen Services, Waste Management, and Cleaning Services. The size of the food pantry, and the many lists of how to clean all the equipment at the hospital was remarkable. We also learnt about the volunteering opportunities and hope some of our learners take that step to add their names to the roster.

This program, organised and delivered by Harriet Pellizzer, has been a significant success. A big shout out to Olivia Hurrell, our ACFE IPN Coordinator, for initiating this vital course in 2024 and for her ongoing support. The dedication shown by Olivia and Harriet is exceptional. All 10 learners attended the hospital tour right on time and were ready to engage.

This fantastic group of prospective hospital employees and/or volunteers came to us via our wonderful referral partners: JobFind, Employment Plus, VELCI, Interact, and Headspace. Thank you to our gracious partners at BCH—Wendy, Carrie, Vicki, Gabby, Snezana, Rakesh and Kerry — were appreciative of the large, engaged group on the tour. The positive feedback and commitment on both sides leave us feeling very optimistic about running this type course again in 2026.

Thank you to everyone who makes this collaboration a success: the learners, the staff at BCAL, our referral partners, and the wonderful team at Bass Coast Health.

Stef has officially graduated from her Certificate II in Salon Assistant — an amazing achievement made even more impressive by the fact that she completed the course while juggling Year 11 studies at Bass Coast College.

Her proud teacher Cathy describes her as “very focused, dedicated, passionate, and already planning for the future,” and it’s clear Stef is well on her way.

In 2026, Stef will take the next big step by beginning a School-Based Apprenticeship. She’ll complete Year 12 while starting the first six months of her apprenticeship at a Corinella salon, continuing to build her skills and confidence as she works toward her Certificate III in Hairdressing through Chisholm Institute.

We’re excited to see where her talent and determination take her next!

Learning isn’t only about qualifications—it’s also about building confidence, connection, and life skills. That’s why we offer a range of Capacity Building sessions, designed to support participants in developing practical skills for everyday life, while also fostering independence, social connection, and fun. Our Capacity Building program includes activities such as art, cooking, gardening, music, and social outings. Each session is hands-on, engaging, and tailored to participants’ needs and interests. The focus is on learning by doing—whether that’s cooking a shared meal, creating a piece of art, or heading out on a community excursion.

These sessions are particularly valuable for people with disability, those seeking to increase their independence, or anyone wanting to connect with others in a supportive environment. Alongside practical skills, participants also develop essential life skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, communication, and confidence. One of the most important aspects of our Capacity Building sessions is the inclusive and welcoming environment. Small groups mean participants receive individual attention and encouragement, while also benefiting from the social side of learning together.

BCAL is proud to see participants achieving personal milestones through these programs—whether it’s trying something new, gaining confidence in everyday tasks, or simply enjoying the opportunity to connect with others. If you or someone you know would benefit from our Capacity Building sessions, we’d love to hear from you. With rolling intakes and a wide variety of activities on offer, there’s always something new to learn and enjoy at BCAL.

Over the past few weeks, BCAL has been out in the community, showcasing our courses and connecting with job seekers at two fantastic events. First up was the Wonthaggi Jobs Expo, where our team met with locals eager to explore new opportunities in training and employment. This was followed by the Phillip Island Jobs Expo in Cowes, where we were joined by other local training providers, employers, and community organisations. Both events gave us the chance to share information about our wide range of programs—from pre-accredited courses designed to build confidence and skills, through to accredited training like First Aid and industry-specific pathways in areas such as aged care, health support, horticulture, and more. It was inspiring to meet so many people who are ready to take the next step in their learning or career journey. We also had the opportunity to talk with employers and service providers about the skills most in demand across the region, helping us ensure that our training continues to meet the needs of the community. A huge thank you goes to Claudine and Olivia, who represented BCAL at these expos with warmth, enthusiasm, and expert knowledge. Their efforts helped highlight how BCAL’s supportive and inclusive learning environment can make a real difference for learners of all ages. If you met us at one of the expos and would like to know more—or if you missed out but are curious about what we offer—now’s the perfect time to get in touch. With mid-year intakes open across many courses, BCAL can help you take your next step toward learning, training, or employment.

Sopha completed the Health Support Services course with BCAL—a pre-accredited, in-person program that equips learners for important non-clinical roles in hospitals, aged care, and disability settings. Since finishing the course, she has gone on to work at Bass Coast Health, where she plays a vital role in creating safe and clean environments for elderly patients. Her journey from adult education to a meaningful career demonstrates the power of community-based learning to open new paths and make real impacts.

Victoria’s Learn Local Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in adult and community education each year. The Skills for Work category recognises individuals who have used pre-accredited training to prepare for employment, such as Sopha. Finalists like Sopha are a testament to the positive life changes learning can create.

Join the next Health Support Services Course—October 2025. Our Health Support Services course will run again for just $50 (or $35 concession), you can explore opportunities in food services, cleaning, administration, reception—and more—within the health sector. The course includes practical, hands-on learning in a small class environment.

We’re making enrolling at BCAL easier than ever. From next term, students will be able to enrol in courses online through our new system, powered by Vettenrol and connected directly to VETtrak, the software we use to manage student enrolments and records.

This means you’ll be able to:

• Browse and select your preferred courses online.

• Complete your enrolment from home or on the go.

• Choose from multiple payment methods for added convenience.

Of course, we know that everyone has different preferences when it comes to enrolment. That’s why in-person and paper enrolments will still be available for those who prefer the traditional way. This step forward is a huge advantage for our community, making it simpler, quicker, and more flexible to secure your place in our courses—whether you’re signing up for job-ready training, personal interest programs, or accredited qualifications. Stay tuned—we’ll be sharing more details and step-by-step instructions soon to guide you through the new online enrolment process. At BCAL, we’re always working to make learning more accessible and inclusive. With this new system, enrolling in your next course has never been easier.