With flexible learning options combined with passionate teachers, strong community and industry partnerships, Bendigo TAFE is beside you every step of the way. Add in access to the Reconnect team and Learning Support service, to ensure you are on the right path.
Echuca local Heather Jeffrey has been teaching VCAL at Bendigo TAFE’s Echuca Campus since 2009.
“Every year the students who come into our VCAL classes are very different,” Heather said.
“They are wonderful students who have struggled in the school system, come across to our VCAL program and have just thrived. The parents are amazed and the students love it.
“Our small class sizes mean that our students get the help that they need.
“We can see if a student is having a bit of trouble, and we can go and offer help. Then they get used to asking for help, and develop their confidence to ask us for help.”
Drawing on her experience working in the disability sector, Heather has long had an interest in helping people to achieve their goals.
“We have students who start at Foundation and go right through to Senior level. It’s really amazing to hear them say they’ve never passed anything in their life, and then they are presented with their certificate. They are so excited!”
Heather’s students have gone on to start apprenticeships, find employment and continue further study in a variety of fields including childcare and animal studies. One student has even gone on to university to study psychology.
“It’s amazing to see their confidence develop,” Heather said.
“The best thing is when they go into the Senior class and they get to try out some work experience opportunities.
“It really gives our students an idea of what they want to go onto next. If they don’t like it, that’s okay. They get to experience what work is like and find something that they love.”
Heather is particularly grateful to local businesses like Campaspe Shire Council and the Riverine Herald for their support of the VCAL program.
“Their support means so much to the students,” she said.
Our Heroes are Made at Bendigo TAFE. For more information on the VCAL program, call 1300 976 977 or visit: bendigotafe.edu.au/Echuca
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