HUME CITY COUNCIL TOGETHER WITH THE HUME GLOBAL LEARNING VILLAGE

IMAGINE, EXPLORE, DISCOVER

VOLUME 31 WINTER 2014www.hume.vic.gov.au

Welcome to Imagine, Explore, Discover Yes, it’s that time of the year again – winter. This season presents a perfect opportunity to get comfortable and warm as you peruse the many stories in the latest edition of Imagine, Explore Discover (IED).

I commend this publication for continuing to be a handy source of information on the many lifelong learning initiatives happening throughout Hume City.

In this issue we focus on two important programs and initiatives: Hume Multiversity and Homework Help.

These feature stories highlight the positive impact these programs are having on our community as told by those who are participating in them. You will also find out how to get involved as a volunteer to help students achieve their long-term education goals.

In this issue of IED you will be introduced to many other learning projects happening in Hume City such as the Broadmeadows Valley Primary School’s Tangata Pasifika Program; the Kitchen Academy Project, now running in Sunbury; and The Smith Family’s student2student program.

An important reminder to all my fellow teachers and principals: nominations for the Teachers’ Scholarships Awards will open soon. I encourage you all to nominate your favourite teacher for their chance to win one of the six $4,000 Teachers’ Scholarships.

You can watch the video interviews featuring all the past scholarships recipients and their winning projects at hume.vic.gov.au/teacherscholarships.

Don’t forget to check out the digital version of IED online at hume.vic.gov.au/imagineexplorediscover, which in this issue features a special behind the scenes look at the Craigieburn Library and a video interview with Gina Dougall, CEO, Banksia Gardens Community Services, about the amazing Teaching for Succcess Program.

Warm wishes and happy reading, Ken Thompson Chairman Hume Global Learning Village Committee

Hume Global Learning VillageGet into the loop and build up your network

Become a Hume Global Learning Village (HGLV) member and keep up to date with news from our learning community.

Build up your network, receive free coverage of your programs and events in the Imagine, Explore, Discover and email newsletter Village Voice. You can get involved with the many learning opportunities happening in Hume.

Become a HGLV member today to enjoy these benefits. The HGLV is a unique, dynamic and inclusive network of individuals and organisations who are committed to improving learning opportunities in Hume. Membership is free!

FOR MORE INFOhume.vic.gov.au/Libraries_Learninghume.vic.gov.au/Libraries_Learning

Broadmeadows Valley Primary SchoolStudents to reach full potential

The Broadmeadows Valley Primary School is introducing a new program to engage the local Pacifi c Island and Maori students with the school’s projects and activities.

The idea behind the Tangata Pasifika Program is to establish a steering group formed by parents and elders who will discuss solutions to improve the students learning outcomes.

“Through this project we will empower our parents and elders to work without Pacific Island students so that they can achieve their full potential at school and do well in their transition to secondary school,” said Brigitte Walker, Community Development Coordinator and Social Worker at Broadmeadows Valley Primary School.

“Our Pacific Islander and Maori communities are strong in both numbers and spirit in Hume. We know they are very family orientated and aspirational,” explains Brigitte. “We believe

we can engage our students and school community by promoting good connections and successes at a primary school level.”

In partnership with Bridging Worx, a not-for-profit community agency, the school will also facilitate a range of programs and activities to celebrate and connect people from all cultures.

These will include group work with the school’s students focusing on understanding the Pacific Island and Maori cultures and identity as well as professional development opportunities for the teaching staff. There will also be sporting and music activities, and a final celebration and performance at the Dimboola Celebrates Festival in December.

FOR MORE INFObvps.vic.edu.au

Volunteering in HumeJust give it a go!

The Hume Volunteer Gateway (HGV) provides opportunities and advice to anyone who wants to help the community through volunteering.

Sevgul Taylar started volunteering as part of her work placement. It also helped her to find a job. “I think volunteering combined with my studies helped me to be where I am now,” she said.

I started volunteering as an administrative assistant for the HVG. It was part of my work placement requirement. I was undertaking the diploma of business administration at Kangan Institute. I thought I would try Hume City Council and then started volunteering with the HVG.

I am working as an Administration Officer in the Centre for Business at Kangan Institute – Broadmeadows. The interview process was very positive as they were impressed with my resume and presentation. A few days later I got a call and started working straight away.

I enjoy volunteering because I am always learning new skills.

I think volunteering is important because if you are seeking paid work it will help you build your confidence. You will also meet different people from different fields and organisations, it is great for networking.

I would say ‘don’t even think twice, just go for it!’ For me volunteering was the best thing I did. I would say to anyone to visit the HVG website and see what is on offer.

FOR MORE INFOhume.vic.gov.au

Outer Urban ProjectsDeveloping young performing artists in Hume

The Zone2 program is run by Outer Urban Projects (OUP), a bold not-for-profi t youth

performing arts organisation. Zone2 offers young people and performing artists in Hume opportunities to express their art and creativity.

Led by a team of experienced professional tutors, the program enables participants to acquire relevant artistic and technical skills through a range of performance-based workshops.

The program supports young people to develop and excel at their chosen art form – be it dance, rap, singing, writing or music, encouraging self-expression in a vibrant and inclusive environment.

Zone2 participants can get involved in collaborative works that OUP presents at the Melbourne Recital Centre, Melbourne Festival, Federation Square and the Melbourne Writers Festival.

In 2014 OUP is bringing the world-renowned New Zeland Dance Company Black Grace to work with emerging dancers and participants in the Zone2 program.

Participation at the Zone2 Ensemble workshops is free. Young people can register their interest on the OUP website and come along.

The sessions are held every Wednesday from 4pm–6pm at Oxygen Youth (4 Gaffney Street, Coburg).

Workshops and events will also be running across Hume schools and community venues.

FOR MORE INFO

outerurbanprojects.orginfo@outerurbanprojects.org

Save energy with Hume Libraries Energy-measuring devices for loan

Energy-conscious library customers can now borrow a Power-Mate, an energy-measuring device, from one of the six Hume Libraries branches.

The Power-Mate plugs into the home appliance’s power source and tells the owner how much electricity the appliance consumes, the running costs and the amount of greenhouse gases it produces. These can be measured when an appliance is plugged in on standby and when in operation.

“These devices give people the ability to rationalise their appliance usage. It also encourages families to change their habits where necessary, based on the information they learn about their electricity consumption. Hume Libraries is very excited to be a part of this scheme that is supported by Hume City Council’s Sustainable Environment Department” said Wendy Byron, Branch Coordinator of The Age Library in Broadmeadows.

FOR MORE INFOhumelibraries.vic.gov.au

BEATing unemploymentBEAT is a free job search support service

Every Wednesday, from 10am to 12pm, a small group of people from all ages and backgrounds meet at The Age Library in Broadmeadows with a common task: to enter or get back into the workforce.

This active group keep the conversation going – and share information that may be of everybody’s interest – while looking for jobs, writing cover letters and preparing resumes.

They are attending BEAT, a free job search support service that offers computer and internet access and assists local residents and job seekers with finding suitable training, career advice, job search techniques and resume preparation.

In 2013, BEAT had 104 participants, with 20% of those reportedly finding a job. “The most popular assistance sought last year was help with job searching followed by resume writing,” said Silvia Sidzimovska, Hume City Council’s Employment and Learning Officer.

“BEAT aims to empower residents in Hume with an informal and supportive environment so that they are able to gain the necessary skills to job search effectively,” said Silvia.

Kangan Institute, AMES, Job Prospects, MatchWorks and Wesley Employment Services are also partners in the service and provide assistance by sending employment consultants along to BEAT to offer their knowledge and advice to participants.

A similar service also runs at the Craigieburn Library on Mondays from 10am to 12pm and at the Sunbury Library on Wednesdays 2pm to 4pm. The service is available to Hume residents only.

FOR MORE INFO9205 2200Silvia SidzimovskaEmployment and Learning Officer

Finding work with BEAT“I am looking at any jobs in administration. Since I joined the program I feel more confident about getting a job, I think it is very encouraging to come here and work independently but in a group setting. I also love the fact that you come here and meet different people all the time.” Ghislaine Fontaine

“My aim is to get a job in the retail industry. Through BEAT I’ve learnt how to build my resume and write effective cover letters. I would say to anyone looking for a job to never give up, keep positive and join the BEAT service.” Cassandra Moulding

“I have a bachelor degree in civil engineering and am looking for a job in this field. BEAT helped me to find a part-time job which allows me to look for a full-time job in my area fi eld. The program is great. Everything I learnt worked well at the interview and my resume keeps improving.” Ton Ho

Libraries and LearningHume Libraries and Learning Winter program

The monthly What’s On Libraries and Learning Winter Program lists exciting and free activities at your local libraries and learning centres.

You can pick up a copy or sign up to What’s On free monthly e-newsletter. By signing up, you will keep up to date with the latest libraries and learning events and activities that are happening in Hume.

FOR MORE INFOhumelibraries.vic.gov.au

Hume Horizons 2040A community vision for the future

Early last year Hume City Council began work on developing a new community plan, the Hume Horizons 2040 (HH2040).

During an extensive consultation phase, more than 4,500 comments from people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds were collected with more than 1,000 residents providing valuable feedback.

The result is a plan that outlines the community’s vision for the future. “It is a plan that ensures we are planning for generations of new residents to come. It outlines the long-term vision for Hume City and is the foundation for Hume City Council’s corporate planning framework,” said Hume Mayor Councillor Casey Nunn.

Hume Horizons 2040 is divided into five themes. Theme one, titled ‘A well-educated and employed community’, reflects the community’s aspirations regarding employment opportunities and lifelong learning.

Based on these aspirations, the plan has been developed to enhance educational opportunities, support business growth, and create local jobs including flexible and part-time employment for parents with young children.

Hume City Council will now take a leading role in advocating to stakeholders and influencing its partners to be proactive in ensuring the success of this plan. It is committed to working with other agencies and service providers, stakeholders, state and federal governments and the wider community to achieve the objectives outlined in the plan.

FOR MORE INFO

hume.vic.gov.au/humehorizons

Middle Years ConferenceHume leading the way in parent engagement at schools

The importance of engaging parents with their children’s school was one of the key messages to emerge from the 2014 Hume Middle Years Conference organised by the Hume Whittlesea Local Learning and Employment Network (HWLLEN).

Many of the local schools in Hume are promoting programs to engage parents.

Previously, these programs may have stretched as far as asking parents to help fundraise or assist in the canteen. Today, schools are actively working in partnership with parents to help improve learning outcomes and attendance levels.

“Schools underestimate the value of a parent’s role in their child’s education. Similarly, parents can also underestimate their own role. However, when schools and parents work together, it becomes apparent that children are capable of achieving great things,” said Nicky Leitch, HWLLEN’s Partnership Broker.

According to Nicky, the idea behind this initiative is to bring together the core influential people (the family) in a young person’s life and then involve them all in the various aspects of their learning.

“Schools are managing to engage parents by asking for their experience and ideas. Even if parents can’t be there, technology now allows the relatives to see their child’s progress and check up on other important matters, such as their attendance,”she said.

One of the next steps in the Hume Middle Years Project is the production of a Hume Model of Practice document.

FOR MORE INFOhwllen.com.au

Teaching for SuccessTutors to develop new skills

The Teaching for Success project, run by Banksia Gardens Community Services, aims to improve the quality of teaching in Hume by assessing the local tutors training needs and develop their skills and resources. The project involves only ‘Learn Local’ teachers, those who teach pre-accredited and accredited courses at community organisations and neighbourhood houses.

Gina Dougall, Chief Executive Offi cer at Banksia Gardens Community Service, spoke to IED about the project that is set to benefit 2,500 adult learners in Hume City.

What courses are the Local Learn teachers delivering in Hume?Courses vary from English as a Second Language (ESL), computer, IT and employment skills to gardening and theatre. As an average of 15% of the trainers are new to the sector and haven’t studied adult learning theories and techniques, the workshops delivered through Teaching for Success are in high demand. They are teachers of pre-accredited and accredited courses, also known as pathway courses, which allow the tutor to move on to employment or a higher degree.

What are the project’s outcomes?We want to improve the quality of pre-accredited teaching in Victoria. The feedback from the participants has been very positive. Through a series of workshops they are learning more about adult learning principles, teamwork, communications, problem-solving techniques, self-management and planning. The best outcome has been the networking opportunities and the sharing of experiences between these tutors who come from all parts of Hume.

Which organisations are participating in the project?We have tutors from a range of learning organisations including the Homestead Community and Learning Centre, Dallas and Tullamarine Neighbourhood Houses, Meadows Heights Learning Shop, Craigieburn Education and Community Centre, Broadmeadows Women’s House and others.

FOR MORE INFOTo watch a video interview with Gina Dougall visit:www.hume.vic.gov.au/imagineexplorediscover

The Kitchen Academy ProjectHands-on experience in the hospitality industry

The Kitchen Academy Project (KAP) is giving youth in Hume the learning and work experience they need to get into the hospitality industry.

Developed by Youth Projects in partnership with the Meadows Primary School, Sunbury Heights Primary School and other Hume Global Learning Village members, the KAP aims to enhance the participants’ employability skills.

Young people participating in the Project work in the school’s kitchen to cater for events such as the children’s Breakfast Club, Teacher’s Treat morning tea and the parents’ Munch and Crunch morning tea. They are also involved in maintaining the school grounds and the schools’ community gardens, where produce is harvested for the KAP catering schedule.

“Participants receive a hands-on experience in horticulture, hospitality and training in food hygiene and preparation, as well as working with children,” said Christina Osagiede, Youth Projects Work Experience Coordinator.

“We believe programs like these will assist young job seekers in securing employment. We have been running this program at Meadows Primary School since 2012 and it’s been very successful because 70% of the KAP participants went on to higher education and employment,” said Christina.

FOR MORE INFOhttp://www.youthprojects.org.au/

Hume MultiversityGetting your university degree close to home

The Hume Multiversity, a partnership between Hume City Council and Deakin University, Victoria University and Kangan Institute, has had some exciting developments over the past few months

Kangan Institute has launched the delivery of two new Bachelor programs including a Bachelor of Information Technology and a Bachelor of Applied Management. “This is an exciting development, as Kangan have historically focused on delivery of TAFE courses. These new Bachelor degrees delivered in Broadmeadows will expose local residents to a variety of career options in the digital technology and business industries,” said Marea Ekladious, Manager Learning Community, Hume City Council.

Deakin University has also commenced the delivery of two degrees – the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education and the Associate Degree of Arts, Business and Sciences. These two courses are being delivered in ‘blended mode’, with students attending face-to-face classes and lectures, but also able to cover course content at home when convenient.

The Bachelor of Early Childhood Education is delivered as an intensive subject, meaning that students can complete the degree in a shorter period of time in comparison to the traditional course delivery methods.

In addition to attending classes one day per week, 7 to 10 hours of independent study per subject outside of class is required.

The students who are currently completing the Associate Degree of Arts, Business and Sciences at the HGLC – Craigieburn shared the general consensus that they enjoy how flexible the delivery structure is.

“As a mother, the course allows me to work the way I want, which is a huge convenience. It fits in nicely with my home commitments,” said Lanu Evalu, Deakin University student.

Hume Multiversity offers access to the latest educational technology. In the classroom, video-conferencing allows interactive, real-time classes with lecturers and students across other universities campuses. Tutors and lecturers are also onsite offering face-to-face support.

“I enjoy the environment we learn in, it’s more interactive than the traditional classrooms,” said Blerta Dardani, Deakin University student.

“The location is also a huge advantage. The distance between the Deakin campus and my house is significant. Thankfully, the Hume Multiversity makes it possible for me to attend class here and get a degree,” Blerta added.

Students use social media to collaborate in addition to their respective institution’s learning management system. For Deakin University students, CloudDeakin is used to take the physical aspects of a student’s learning and present them on screen. “We’re always on CloudDeakin. It’s really well-organised and presented. We can re-watch lectures, submit assignments and contact our tutor if we have any questions. I’m thankful that we don’t have to physically travel all the way to campus just to submit assignments like some of my friends do,” said Ezgi Bas, Deakin University student.

A typical day in the classroom mirrors that of standard university classes. “The students arrive at 9am and continue through until 4pm. Our Thursday class features two hours of lectures, and four hours of tutorial work,” said Denise Saad, tutor for Deakin University.

The course work covered will enable students to get into a bachelor degree, with up to 18 months worth of credit. “This way, students are able to ease into university life. They will already have credit points behind them in addition to the referencing, research and study skills they will learn here. Some of our students are even completing diplomas, so they will be work ready by the time they finish their degree,” said Denise.

Enrolments for 2015 opening soonFuture students can browse all the courses offered online by each of the tertiary education providers. Different requirements will apply depending on the course of interest and what type (bachelor, associate degree, a diploma or vocational training) of course it is.

FOR MORE INFOhume.vic.gov.au/yourpathwaytouniversity

Student2student buddy programhelps children to become better readers

Students at Bethal Primary School and Coolaroo South Primary School are improving their literacy skills by reading books to a ‘buddy’ over the phone. They are taking part in one of The Smith Family’s most successful programs, the student2student program.

The program matches children from years three to eight with trained reading buddies who are at least two years older. These students have been partnered with students from the Canterbury Girls Secondary College.

Fahriye Yilmaz, Community Liaison Offi cer at Coolaroo South Primary School, works with the school and families in facilitating student participation in the student2student program. “I’ve seen students start the program quite shy and worried they’ll make a mistake but by the end of it they are more confident and seem to really enjoy reading. The student-buddy system works well: the buddies are a great motivating force, particularly for those kids who come from larger families and may not get much one-on-one time with their parents.”

The program runs over an 18 week period with the pair connecting over the phone two to three times a week, for at least 20 minutes at a time.

The teacher or principal recruit the reader-students to be part of the program however families can express their interest by talking to their children’s teacher or parincipal.

A major study of 742 participants in the program has revealed that 93 per cent improved their reading with two-thirds boosting their reading age by more than six months. “At least nine-out-of-10 in every group improved their reading over the course of the program,” said Anne Hampshire, The Smith Family’s Head of Research and Advocacy.

FOR MORE INFOhttp://www.thesmithfamily.com.au/

Sunbury Playgrouptaking care of children and parents

Every Tuesday and on the fi rst Thursday of the month a group of families of pre-schoolers and fi rst time parents meet at the Goonawarra Neighbourhood House to share their experiences.

This could be a typical playgroup meeting if it wasn’t for one special fact; these are all parents of twins or higher order multiple birth children. “We have 40 families of multiples in Sunbury who are members of our group and we know that there are many more out there,” said Kate Carpenter, Playgroup Coordinator, SunRanges Twins Plus Inc. Kate explains that parents can often feel overwhelmed with multiple birth children (twins, triplets etc) and simple tasks such as getting out of the house can turn into a daunting experience.

“We organise the playgroup meetings and the monthly coffee morning so they know they’re not alone. They can have questions about parenting multiples answered by other parents who have experienced these same issues,” said Kate.

The SunRanges Twins Plus Inc. provides information on parenting courses and promotes a series of events, including seminars and workshops throughout the year. Families of multiple birth children are welcome to join.

FOR MORE INFOhttp://sunranges.amba.org.au

Creating a healthier city

Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan

The Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 outlines how Hume City Council will shape the community’s health and wellbeing.

Some of the actions listed in the plan include access to education, housing and employment, and the design of Hume City, with more walking and cycling paths.

“When we are well and satisfied with our lives, our ability to work and learn improves, our quality of life increases and our families and communities are stronger and safer. The plan addresses our community’s needs and will create a healthier city,” said Bonnie Matheson, Hume City Council’s Health Promotions Officer.

The Hume Health and Wellbeing Plan 2013-2017 is based on extensive research, interviews and workshops held with the community and other stakeholders over 12 months.

What is one way of creating a healthier Hume?Many Hume City residents felt the effects of the heat waves and bushfires last summer. In the lead up to next summer, the Hume Heatwave Help for Home Care Clients project aims to reduce the risk of heatwaves for the most vulnerable home care clients. Free retrofits have been offered to eligible home care clients and will include simple upgrades such as draught sealing, window coverings and ceiling fans. Residents will also learn how to stay cool in the heat and low cost cooling options.

FOR MORE INFOhume.vic.gov.au/healthandwellbeingplan

Teachers Scholarships 2014Do you know an inspiring teacher?

Nominations will soon open for the new round of Hume’s inspiring teachers. Anyone can nominate an inspiring, passionate and innovative teacher who will go into the running to win one of six Teachers’ Scholarships.

Each year, winners from various categories are awarded scholarships of up to $4,000 which the teachers can use to learn about new models, ideas and approaches to learning, knowledge or skill development in Australia or overseas. Runners-up in each category will be awarded over $500 to use towards professional development.

Past winners have used the scholarship to take part in overseas study tours, professional development opportunities, and conferences. Winning teachers have also formed valuable contacts through the networking opportunities presented to them through this program. Teachers can self-nominate, or be nominated by colleagues, students, parents or the public.

FOR MORE INFO

hume.vic.gov.au/teacherscholarships

9356 6999

Broadmeadows Schools Networkimproving student outcomes in Hume

In 2012 the principals of nine local schools decided to unite forces and create the Broadmeadows Schools Network to work together to set and achieve shared aspirations for education in Broadmeadows. These include improving student outcomes and attendance and increasing family involvement within each school.

“The network wants to ensure that our students acquire the skills and knowledge they need to improve their outcomes at school and have access to a broad range of successful pathways,” said Diane Bassett, Principal of Hume Valley School and Broadmeadows Schools Network’s Chairperson.

The principals also want to open up new curriculum opportunities for their students. They are committed to working together in developing high performing schools that offer the very best education for all students. “At our meetings we have developed a network vision, a communication strategy and established priorities and working parties to undertake our work now and into the future,” said Diane.

“We have also established an Advisory Board with representatives from the schools and Department of Education, and key partners from early childhood and tertiary education, local government, community and business sectors,” said Diane.

The network and its Advisory Board partners, also aims to create learning communities that extend beyond the classroom and individual schools. These learning communities will enhance teaching and leadership capacity through shared use of data, professional learning

opportunities and research-based practice. “We are developing a strategic direction for our future work and will continue to pursue opportunities for further partnerships and expertise to achieve our vision,” said Diane.

FOR MORE INFOContact Gavin Healey Executive Officer atghea1948@bigpond.net.au

Hume Global Learning Centre – SunburyFeasibility Study Update

Hume City Council commenced phase one of a feasibility study to determine the need for the development of a new Hume Global Learning Centre (HGLC) in Sunbury.

Phase one of the study focuses on what types of services should be made available through the new centre. “The centre is expected to act as a central hub for learning, cultural and social activities. This includes housing a range of learning facilities and services such as the new Sunbury Library,” said Marea Ekladious, Manager Learning Community.

The feasibility study is being conducted through consultants at Brand Architects and communityvibe. The feasibility study is a key project in Council’s Learning Together 4 Action Plan 2014-2017, which was adopted in 2013.

Brand Architects and communityvibe sought feedback from residents and relevant stakeholders at the Sunbury SunFest event, which was held in March. The consultants also had an information stand at the Sunbury Shopping Centre.

Residents and interested community members also had an opportunity to have their say their say on the proposed HGLC – Sunbury by completing an online consultation survey. The consultants have also had a number of meetings with key stakeholders and community groups in Sunbury. This included schools, training providers, not for profit groups, police, historical groups and state and federal government bodies.

This community feedback is now being carefully considered, with the final report due to be completed in June.

FOR MORE INFOhume.vic.gov.au

Indigenous Education CentreStudent lends support in Aboriginal community

From assisting families with parenting challenges to introducing methods in improving early childhood outcomes for Aboriginal children, childcare student Marjorie Slater-Burns has been making a real difference in her community as an Aboriginal Parent Support Worker at Hume City Council.

Marjorie currently studies the Certificate III in Children’s Services at Kangan Institute’s Indigenous Education Centre (IEC) and commenced working at Hume as part of a full-time traineeship.

According to the 23-year-old her work has brought her personal satisfaction as a young mother herself. “It is completely different to what I thought I’d be doing, but I do enjoy working alongside children and I wouldn’t have it any other way considering I am also a young mum myself,” she says.

“I love being able to work with families in my community. Helping them with their children makes what I’m doing a whole lot more worthwhile.”

The IEC mentors all trainees and liaises with workplaces to enhance the traineeship outcome for each student. Marjorie’s self-paced learning includes weekly classes and work-related assessments.

Marjorie’s self-paced learning includes weekly classes and work-related assessments.

The IEC provides language and literacy support where required, flexible assessments and employment links with local communities and businesses.

FOR MORE INFOkangan.edu.au13 TAFE

The story of refugeesCraigieburn gallery

Hume artists Ahmad Sabra and Zahrah Habibulah present an exhibition of photography, objects and jewellery at the Craigieburn gallery.

Ahmad’s work reflects stories of refugees displaced through conflict, migration and war. His work explores their lives and hopes and portrays how they have been affected as individuals and families.

Zahrah’s work investigates the relationship with objects, and how through the forms of objects and jewellery one can retain a strong resonance of memory and place. Jewellery is often the smallest most valuable item one can take if fleeing from home. Zahrah’s work reflects different aspects of preciousness, memory, place and belonging.

FOR MORE INFOwww.hume.vic.gov.au/gallery

Bilingual Sinhalese StorytimeSharing songs and teaching the language

Since February, the large Sinhalese community living in Craigieburn has been offered a new service at their local library, the Sinhalese Bilingual Storytime program. In three months the program had more than 260 people, between parents and children, attending the sessions. “This is a great outcome with the numbers of families attending growing quite quickly,” said Chrissy Dainton, Community Engagement Team Leader at Hume City Council. During the sessions stories are read in Sinhalese and English. The program supports language and literacy development and provides a wonderful experience in sharing cultures.

Sinhalese Bilingual Storytime will run each Monday from 11am-12pm atCraigieburn Library until 30 June 2014. No bookings are required.

Free Homework HelpAvailable to all students in Hume

Helping young people with homework can be a difficult and time-consuming task. Hume Libraries facilitates the Homework Help program, a free service where tutors are available to help students with their homework

The appeal for students to attend Homework Help sessions at Craigieburn Library lies within the supportive and friendly environment that the Homework Help team have fostered. The tutors are both approachable and knowledgeable and are available to help students with

most subject areas. The flexible study spaces found within the library allows for both collaborative and independent study.

The Homework Help program began in late 2012, soon after the new Hume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn Library opened. “When the opportunity was presented to start a homework program for Craigieburn Library, I was excited,” said Geoff Hjorth, engineer physicist and Homework Help volunteer.

“We try to help everyone develop good study habits and get them interested in learning maths, science and physics,” said Alex Wosny, Homework Help volunteer. “Each session has about 15-20 students, with many of them being from years 11 and 12 who are completing their VCE,” he said.

Students from all local schools have been embracing the Homework Help program, and the feedback is largely positive. “I like to come here because I can ask lots of questions, get help exactly where I need, better than home. I want to further my studies and am looking at a career in medicine, biomedical or chemical engineering,” said Chamali Wadanambi, Year 11 student at Mac Robertson Girls High School.

“If you’re struggling with any subject, the tutors will help. They are very easy to get along with. They’re friendly, approachable, and they are very accepting to all – it’s not exclusive based on what school you go to, or your background. Plus, it’s free! Everyone likes free things,” added Anthony Makhoul, student at Penola Catholic College.

The Homework Help program has helped many students succeed in their studies. Presley Asekuna Tanuuasa, a student at Craigieburn Secondary College, comes from a big family with five brothers and nine sisters who keep her very busy at home. “I need to look after the younger ones and can’t do any homework at home. Being the older girl I want to be a role model for my sisters and keep studying. I like to study here as I can focus in my work. I study because I want to have a career not a daily job,“ she said.

Parents are also impressed with how the Homework Help program is assisting their students. “I think my son gets more done here. The one-on-one interaction between student and tutor is great and it also helps my son socially,” said Sami Sheikheldin.

Free tutoring sessions during school terms There is no need to book, simply show up and introduce yourself to one of the tutors

General tutoring

Free tutoring available to help primary and secondary school students in most subjects including English, mathematics, science and more. Sessions are held at the Craigieburn Library on Thursdays, 4–6pm (during school terms).

Mathematics and scienceFree specialised mathematics and science tutoring available to help secondary school students with their homework. Classes are held at the Craigieburn Library, on Wednesdays, 4–6pm (during school terms).

Aiming High VCE ProgramA free homework program for high achieving VCE students in years 11 and 12. Sessions are held at the Hume Global Learning Centres – Broadmeadows and Craigieburn on Thursdays from 4–6pm during school terms. This programme is only open to students who have been selected by their school. Referrals are taken from the schools at the start of the year. Students interested in being part of the program can talk to their teacher and express their interest.

FOR MORE INFOhumelibraries.vic.gov.au

Premiers’ Reading ChallengeAre you up for the challenge?

The Victorian Premiers’ Reading Challenge presents an opportunity for children and young people to read more books. To assist with finding resources, many of the titles on the Premier’s Book List can be found at Hume Libraries.

Students in prep to year two who accept the challenge need to read 30 books during this period. Students in years three to 10 who accept the challenge must read 15 books during this period. These books can be of any language and any genre.

Schools must first register themselves and then register on behalf of students.

If a student’s school is not participating in the challenge, or if the student is home schooled, they can be registered as a ‘home-based reader’.

Last year over four million books were read state-wide for the challenge.

Books on the Premier’s Reading Challenge list are available in the Hume Libraries catalogue.

FOR MORE INFOhumelibraries.vic.gov.au

Behind the scenesCraigieburn Library

Go behind the scenes at the Craigieburn Library, and take peek at how returned items are processed.

New technology now makes it easier to handle the vast amount of items that are returned to Hume Library branches each day. ‘Smart Bins’ that utilise Radio Frequency Identification technology (RFID) check-in books and remove them from customer’s cards within 10 seconds of landing in the smart bin.

The implementation of this technology has sped up the process of returning books to the shelf, allowing staff to spend more time helping customers.

TO WATCH THE VIDEO VISIThume.vic.gov.au/imagineexplorediscover

Hume Librarieswww.humelibraries.vic.gov.au

The Age LibraryHume Global Learning Centre – Broadmeadows1093 Pascoe Vale Road, Broadmeadows 304703 9356 6900

Craigieburn LibraryHume Global Learning Centre – Craigieburn75-95 Central Park Avenue, Craigieburn 306403 9356 6980

Gladstone Park Community LibraryTaylor Drive, Gladstone Park 304303 9356 6990

Sunbury Library44 Macedon Street, Sunbury 342903 9356 6970

Tullamarine Library58 Spring Street, Tullamarine 304303 9356 6966

Hume Mobile LibraryThe Hume Mobile Library operates on a weekly timetable across Campbellfield, Coolaroo, Dallas, Greenvale, Meadow Heights and Roxburgh Park.03 9356 6980

Hume City Council1079 Pascoe Vale RoadBroadmeadows VIC 304703 9356 690003 9356 6935contactus@hume.vic.gov.auhume.vic.gov.au

The views and opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily the views or opinions shared by the Hume Global Learning Village and Hume City Council.