Shining stars of vocational training

Bass Coast Adult Learning is a finalist in the 69th Victorian Training Awards next month, recognising excellence in the vocational education and training sector.

It is one of 40 finalists that have been named across 14 categories, including six individual awards, four employer awards, four training organisation awards and the Industry Collaboration Award.

In announcing the finalists, the government said for a “relatively small adult learning centre based in Wonthaggi, Bass Coast Adult Learning (BCAL) packs a punch when it comes to student success”.

In 2022, one student published a photography book and others took out top prizes in local art shows. A horticulture graduate went on to create a fresh produce garden and donated produce to Salvation Army food boxes, and several certificated horticulture graduates established businesses.

BCAL partners with community organisations and local businesses in the development and delivery of diverse courses, sharing knowledge and resources. This includes their Adult Migrant English program with participants from Afghanistan, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, China and Africa.

This year’s winners will be announced at the Victorian Training Awards gala ceremony on August 18, with each one receiving $5000 in prize money and the opportunity to represent Victoria at the Australian Training Awards.

The full list of finalists can be found at vic.gov.au/2023-victorian-training-awards-finalists.