2017 PCLCANNUAL REPORT

Diverse and Inclusive | www.pclcentre.org.au

JOINTCHAIRPERSONAND PEO REPORT

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

JOINT CHAIRPERSON AND PEO REPORT 01

2017 has been a year of renewal at PCLC with new initiatives, energy and staff. The PCLC Committee of Management has, once again, been wonderful resource and key driver of the work of PCLC. Their expertise in change management, willingness to enter into unknown territory, and continuous support to staff were instrumental in allowing PCLC to open its doors to a brand new Social Enterprise, The Collective Boutique! PCLC would like to thank all the wonderful volunteers for their commitment during 2017, and in particular, to our Committee of Management members, who are also all volunteers. A special thank you and best wishes to our outgoing Chairperson, Simon Clarke. Simon was a member on the PCLC Committee of Management for 10 years and Chairperson for 5 years. We wish Simon all the very best for his move interstate, and thank him for his dedicated service to PCLC.

PCLC welcomed continued funding from our multiple funding sources, in particular, Department of Education and Training (Skills First and ACFE), Department of Health and Human Services, Department of Human Services and the City of Stonnington. Without continued government funding and support, we would not be able to provide the services to our cohort of learners - many of whom are vulnerable, disengaged and socially isolated. A large proportion of our learner demographic is disengaged young people. For many young people, especially those with trauma in their childhood, success cannot be measured by whether they pass Year 12 or not. Young people, with complewx barriers to mainstream education, will often view the completion of year 12 as a pipedream. For these young people, success may look like having somewhere to sleep that night and just getting out of bed to come to school every morning. It could also be getting a job and having enough money to buy food and everyday supplies. Similarly, it may be working through drug and alcohol issues or mental health issues that is preventing them from moving forward. The Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning (VCAL) Program and the Individual Learning Program (ILP), both of which are delivered as part of PCLC’s non-mainstream school registration, allow young people (who have not remained engaged in education in mainstream school and as such, need a more flexible approach) to access to a more individualised and alternative school model. Logically, this also requires a more nuanced approach to measuring success and progress for this cohort.

Throughout 2017, PCLC continued to work on our Rainbow Tick accreditation, together with QIP, we are working towards being committed to safe and inclusive service delivery for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people in our community. The Rainbow Tick Standards are applicable to any organisation, regardless of industry, and supports organisations to develop and implement inclusive practices for the LGBTI community. As we strive towards our Rainbow Tick accreditation, we are demonstrating our commitment to LGBTI pride, diversity and inclusion. We are letting our LGBTI consumers, staff and community know that they will receive inclusive services from the moment they step through our door.

In addition to PCLCs education services, The Neighbourhood House Coordination Program (NHCP) provides funding for PCLC to support the provision of community development programs and activities which lead to community-strengthening outcomes through:

• Supporting diversity by promoting community participation and inclusion.

• Facilitating community development and capacity building in support of individuals and groups within communities.

• Supporting life-long learning opportunities for people to improve their training and employment pathways and community participation.

• Support community development processes to address locally identified priorities and needs through:

1. Community consultation.

2. Development of agreed community responses to identified priorities and needs.

3. Identification of partners and funding sources.

It is easy to lose sight of the Neighbourhood House programs we deliver and they are sometimes a little overshadowed by the accredited courses delivered, however, as a Neighbourhood House, we are a Centre where people of all abilities, backgrounds and ages can come to:

• Meet, talk and make friends.

• Develop new skills.

• Transition to work and further study.

• Volunteer.

• Become involved in community events.

• Find out about other services or activities in the area.

• Join a class or support group

• Take up an activity for fun and enjoyment

Myriad research in Victoria and internationally demonstrates the specific and measurable benefits of social connection - and its social capital - in terms of individual and community wellbeing. These benefits include, for individuals, better physical and mental health, positive parenting, improved child development, better education and employment outcomes for young people, and positive ageing. For communities, the benefits include positive social practices, better information dissemination and innovation, improved social cohesion, increasing inclusive attitudes and respect, and turning community assets into outcomes such as jobs and educational achievement. As a proud Neighbourhood House, PCLC is committed to continuing to provide a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of the community.

To the Committee of Management, a heartfelt thank you for your continued support and commitment to community and social education and to the PCLC staff, each and every one of you - whether you work in admin, as a teacher, in the childcare service or as a volunteer, a sincere thank you for your patronage to PCLC.

Andrew NeophytouActing Chairperson

Angela StathopoulosPEO

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

COMMITTEE OF MANAGEMENT & AIMS AND VALUES02

2017AIMSAND VALUESVISION

Our vision is to continue as a welcoming, purposeful and dynamic centre, which plays a pivotal role of providing education, support and recreational opportunities to its diverse community.

MISSION

PCLC is a Community Educational Centre actively driven by the needs and wants of our community. It is a centre that provides a supportive environment, that educates and provides practical experience in social, financial, cultural and personal development.All are welcomed.

OUR VAUES

In achieving the mission and vision, PCLC will work within a set of values that establish the culture of the organisation and reflect our community.

1. Commitment to Learning: We commit ourselves to a community of learning and to the teaching and learning relationship wherever it is found. We value partnerships with business, industry, government, education providers, and our communities in support of those teaching and learning relationships.

2. PCLC is our People: It is people who create the value in the learning relationship and in the services that support and sustain it. We value an educational environment that attracts, nurtures, and supports diversity.

3. Continuous Improvement: We value continuous improvement of our programs, services and processes through employee empowerment student input and professional development.

4. Integrity: We value responsible, accountable, ethical behaviour in an atmosphere of honest, open communication with mutual respect and caring for each other.

5. Innovation: We value creativity, responsible risk-taking, and enthusiastic pursuit of new ideas.

6. Sustainability: We commit to the educational, environmental, and financial sustainability of PCLC.

Simon ClarkeChairperson

David PatonTreasurer

Tom MoloneyCommittee Member

Gino VincenziniCommittee Member

Sandra RossCommittee Member

Andrew NeophytouDeputy Chairperson

2017COMMITTEEOF MANAGEMENT

2017 STRATEGIC DIRECTION

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

STRATEGY 1

Meeting the Needs of Our Community - PCLC provides people for the City of Stonnington and surrounding municipalities with quality education options that allow them to learn in a centre which is flexible, understanding and nurturing.

In order to meet the needs of our diverse community there are three actions identified:

1.1 Excellent Education opportunities for the Community:

• Using data ensure that appropriate education opportunities are available to our diverse community.

• Using technology to improve access and efficiencies.

1.2 Effective Community Alliances.Build and strengthen strategic alliances including:

• Local schools.

• JSAS.

• Learn Locals.

• Health service providers.

Strengthen relationships with key industry partners including:

• Government Departments and Regulatory bodies.

• Local Government.

• Industry.

1.3 Reporting.Deliver reports that contain all the required information to enable PCLC effective understanding of the community needs to provide better governance and management.

STRATEGY 2

Enhancing the Learning ExperiencePCLC has a widely varying mix of:

• Courses – hobby and interest, non-accredited, pre-accredited and accredited.

• Students – old, young, all abilities.

• Training delivery modes – full-time, part time, in-house, off-campus, face-to-face, blended.

• Facilities and room hire

PCLC aims to ensure that we provide a rich and valued learning experience for all of our students.

2.1 Improve Accessibility:

• Maintain affordability through cost effective delivery.

• Strive for accessibility through flexible delivery modes at times and locations which suit student learning needs.

2.2 Improve Educational Performance Indicators:

• Identify, analyse and respond to quality indicators.

• Use surveys to monitor service satisfaction and act upon findings.

• Identify, analyse and address factors contributing to student withdrawal.

2.3 Ensure that accessibility is maintained for people of all abilities.

2.4 Increase the opportunities for PCLC with all sectors.Develop marketing strategies that are relevant and increase opportunities.

2.5 Ensure that all legislation requirements are met and exceeded toenhance the learning experience including:

• Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

• Child Safety Standards.

• AQTF Compliance requirements.

STRATEGY 3

Be a Sustainable Business. PCLC is a multi-faceted community service provider with a wide range of income and expenditure.

3.1 Increase income and opportunities:

• Build diversification of funding streams.

• Identify and grow existing high value areas of current business.

• Develop partnerships across and within education sector.

3.2 Manage assets to improve operating surpluses.Build capital reserves to ensure sustainability.

3.3 Maintain Effective Business Systems:

• Strive to benchmark against other community learning centres / providers when appropriate

• Analyse and monitor all data systems including Student Management, HR, Financial, Intranet and IT systems.

• Monitor for efficiencies, effectiveness, security, cost, integration and backup support.

3.4 Ensure Environmental Sustainability.Identify potential environmentally sustainable opportunities for implementation, and empower staff to identify environmental changes.

3.5 Governance structure.Maintain a strong and diversely skilled board, and develop succession planning into board, management and staff structures.

3.6 Employer of choice:

• Offer flexible and effective work arrangements.

• Provide competitive remuneration.

• Provide career pathways.

• Support staff training and development.

STRATEGY 4

Innovation in Teaching and Learning. PCLC will ensure that we are operating at the best possible level with regards use of innovation in delivery for maximum efficiency in terms of cost of delivery and effectiveness in terms of outcomes.

4.1 Information Technology:

• Positively support staff in the integration of digital literacy into all courses.

• Leverage social media for all aspects of the business.

4.2 Provide engaging work environment for staff

• Provide facilities that meet staff and student expectations within resource limitations.

• Develop a culture of innovation and creativity.

• Provide opportunities for staff to maintain industry and VET currency.

• Promote and celebrate staff achievements.

2017 STRATEGIC DIRECTION 03

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

2017 PARTICIPANT DATA04

DISTRIBUTION BY GENDER DISTRIBUTION BY AGE

75.2%24.0%

0.4%0.4%

0 - 9

10 -

19

20 -

29

30 -

44

45 -

54

55 -

64

65 -

79

80 -

89

90 -

99

2.4%

16.1

%

3.6%

100+

11.6

%

7.2%

13.7

%

28.5

%

13.7

%

2.4%

0.8%

MALE FEMALE

GENDERDIVERSE

I’D RATHERNOT SAY

DISTRIBUTION BY INDIGENOUS STATUS

Yes, Aboriginal

No

I’d rathernot say

7.2%

92.4%

0.4%

DISTRIBUTION BY ENGLISH AS PRIMARY LANGUAGE

Yes

No

61.8%

38.2%

DISTRIBUTION BY DISABILITY/IMPAIRMENT

Yes

No

I’d rathernot say

28.4%

70.4%

1.2%

DISTRIBUTION BY REASON TO ATTEND PCLC

Course or class

Social group

Use a service

Exercise / health class

Advice / help

Childcare / playgroup

Support group

Volunteering, placement

Job training / support

29.0%

23.0%

10.5%

9.9%

9.1%

6.8%

5.7%

4.3%

1.7%

DISTRIBUTION BY MAIN BENEFIT BY COMING TO PCLC

Spend time withother people 23.7%

17.8%

12.6%

11.7%

9.7%

8.6%

7.2%

6.5%

2.0%

Meet new people /make friends

Improve my personal wellbeing

Develop a new interest / activity

Improvemy health

Improve myindependence

Improve myjob skillsHelp my

communityI’d rather

not say

I’d ra

ther

not s

ay

2017PARTICIPANT

DATA

PCLC is committed to meeting the continually changing needs of our diverse community and making sure that at all stages we are meeting our mission and values.

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

DIVERSITY,INCLUSIVE SERVICES AND

RAINBOW TICK ACCREDITATION

ACCESS & DIVERSITY 05

IDAHOBITDAY

With this in mind in 2017 PCLC appointed a Inclusivity and Diversity Coordinator to audit our current practices and protocols against best practice standards in Diversity and LGBTIQ inclusivity with a goal to become a Rainbow Tick Accredited organisation and an industry leader in inclusive services.

We are currently in the process of working through the six LGBTI-inclusive standards which are:

1. Access and intake processes.

2. Consumer consultation.

3. Cultural safety.

4. Disclosure and documentation.

5. Professional development.

6. Organisational capacity.

A huge thank you to our Board for their full support during this process and to our networks for valuable feedback.

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

ADULT EDUCATION AND YOUTH EDUCATION06

EDUCATION

PCLC delivers a mix of Accredited and Pre-Accredited Adult Education courses. Accredited courses include the Certificates in General Education for Adults, Certificate II & III Visual Arts and Certificate II & III in Business. Pre-Accredited classes include English Language and Learning, Visual Art & Basic Computers skills practice.

The Visual Art Classes are delivered to a wide cohort of Adult learners. This program aims to assist with self-expression, visual art knowledge and increased engagement and connectedness with the community. Student achievements are celebrated regularly throughout the year via various exhibitions and events. Students who are studying Pre-Accredited art have the option of a direct pathway into PCLCs Accredited Visual Art programs.

The Pre-Accredited and Accredited English courses cover areas such as conversations, giving and listening to spoken information, reading and writing short messages, grammar, pronunciation and more. All classes are delivered in a fun, relaxed open environment.

A significant cohort of PCLC’s student population is secondary aged students who have disengaged from mainstream education. Courses include Certificate II in General Education for Adults, VCAL Intermediate & Senior, Certificate II & III in Visual Arts and Certificate II in Business.

The PCLC ILP (Individual Learning Program) class is aimed for students in years 7-10 who have disengaged, are at risk of disengaging, or those not attending school. Further pathway planning is provided for every student throughout the duration of the course, and each student is well supported with an individual learning plan that is managed throughout the program. The ILP class is comprised of the Certificate II in General Education and Certificate II in Visual Arts. Students have the option of completing the Certificate II in Business as additional study.

ADULTEducation

YOUTHEducation

YOUTH ARTCLASS

ENGLISHCLASS

The computer sessions are aimed at beginner and intermediate levels. Each session is designed to improve confidence in using technology and software applications in a supportive classroom environment.

The Business studies place an emphasis on refining knowledge of computer operation, business record-keeping, work health and safety, customer service and document creation skills. Classes are self-paced and are run on an individualised basis.

COMPUTERSESSION VCAL Intermediate & Senior studies are explored creatively through applied

learning activities, community engagement programs and integrated curriculum. Thematic learning is encouraged - an integrated learning model that incorporates facets of theoretical/practical learning adapted to each students learning style and level. Students in VCAL also enrol into Certificate II or III in Visual Arts as their VET program, and have the option of enrolling into Certificate II in Business as additional study. VCAL focuses on knowledge and employability skills development that leads to independent learning, confidence and a higher level of transferable skills.

PCLC’s ILP & VCAL programs provide a hands-on learning approach, applicable to the “real world”. The courses place a great emphasis on real life learning that is delivered in a nurturing environment, whilst working with students in a holistic manner, taking into account personal strengths, interests and goals.

VCALCLASS

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

CHILDREN’S SERVICES & HEALTH AND WELLBEING 07

CHILDREN’S SERVICES & HEALTH AND WELLBEING

PCLC provides a number of children’s services including occasional child care and after school kids art. We also cater for a comfortable space and child-friendly environment towards parent-run playgroup and activities.

As a Neighbourhood House, PCLC delivers several group activities and programs that are focused on improving the community’s wellbeing and living skills. Some of our activities including budget cooking and knitters provide a way for the participants to get together and socialise while learning something new on a weekly basis.

One of our most favourite wellbeing programs is Yoga. This activity will allow gentle stretches to release tension, postures to align the body & enhance energy flow, breathing techniques to further promote the energy flow of the body & relaxation to settle the nervous system and calm the mind.

The Knitters of the Round Table was started by a group of women at the Community Health Centre Malvern Road in 1994 and moved to Prahran Community Learning Centre later the same year. It is a group that voluntarily meet every Tuesday at PCLC. They get together for an afternoon of knitting, discussion, connecting with friends and enjoying a cuppa. Occasionally, they are also involved in annual campaign such as providing free baby socks to the mothers in need.

Strength-based exercise is daily morning activity at PCLC targeted towards anyone who would like to do light exercise to train their muscle and joints.

CHILDREN’SServices

HEALTH ANDWellbeing

YOGACLASS

CHILDCARE

KIDSART

Prahran Community Learning Centre aims to provide good quality child care for children aged between 6 months – 5 years. The programs are presented to cater for children’s social, emotional, cognitive and physical developmental needs on a flexible basis. The centre recognises that good quality child care is a valuable experience for children from a variety of backgrounds and that there are many reasons for parents to desire child care.

Our Playgroup provides a place for parents and young children to meet on a regular basis. We provide a range of educational activities to foster children’s learning and development and a chance for parents to get to know each other. Playgroup creates a welcoming environment for parents and their pre-schoolers to get together on a regular basis. This contributes to community building through the facilitation of friendships and networks within the local area.

PCLC is proud to present our Budget Cooking class that provide our participants with a way to cook healthy and delicious meal on a budget. People with disabilities are encourged to apply. Our budget cooking class participants love to share and talk to one another, and it is becoming one of our goal to provide a supportive and comfortable environment where everyone feels welcome in each of their classes.

COOKINGCLASS

THECOLLECTIVEBOUTIQUE

PCLC is excited to announce a new Social Enterprise! In May, we launched a clothing resale business with a specialty in women’s designer clothing, shoes and accessories! The Collective Boutique is registered with ASIC to Prahran Community Learning Centre Inc.

The Collective Boutique is located at 185 Greville Street Prahran. The concept is to incorporate a training component to the business. PCLC students will be provided with the opportunity to complete a traineeship in Business or Business Admin. We will also be adding to our Scope of Registration to include courses such as:

• Cert 2/3 in Visual Merchandising.

• Cert 2/3 Retail.

• Cert 2/3 Media.

Students can complete their VCAL units at PCLC and undertake a VET unit “on the job” at The Collective Boutique. All sales from The Collective Boutique go back to PCLC to support disadvantaged families accessing our services.

Aside from the obvious training benefi ts, ethical fashion is the new black. Shop smart, shop resale. If you’re looking to make a difference, there are a variety of ways you can use your power, vote with your dollar, and make your voice heard. Because our society is driven around consumerism, one of the best ways to benefi t your own budget, save the environment, and satisfy your shopping craving for unique goods is to shop second-hand. Buying used goods cuts down on manufacturing demands and keeps more items out of landfi ll! Because a large amount of man-made goods are routinely thrown away, re-using gives a longer life to common household items another family could use, saving the Earth in effect. The fl ow of second-hand giving goes both ways. Items or clothes you no longer use, you can donate back to The Collective Boutique and offer up goods another may be searching for. The act of recycling not only enables us to feel good about our actions but, again, keeps money in the local economy and supports the green living movement.

2017 PCLC ANNUAL REPORT

Social Enterprise

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE08

185 Greville Street, PrahranP: (03) 9510 5444E: info@thecollectiveboutique.com.auwww.thecollectiveboutique.com.au

@thecollectiveboutique @thecollectiveboutique

THE COLLECTIVE BOUTIQUE

@thecollectiveboutique @thecollectiveboutique

40 Grattan Street, PrahranP: (03) 9510 7052E: admin@pclcentre.org.auwww.pclcentre.org.au

@thepclc