Celebrating our community leaders in education

Celebrating the state’s adult and community education providers, trainers and students, the 17th annual Learn Local Awards showcased another year of outstanding Victorian achievements.

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney congratulated the 25 finalists and 8 Learn Local award winners and following the Learn Local Awards(opens in a new window) ceremony last night.

The awards honour students, trainers, leaders and providers in the state’s Learn Local sector – made up of more than 200 not-for-profit organisations – delivering high quality training across the state, including to communities in rural and regional Victoria.

Kensington Neighbourhood House won the Pre-accredited Program Award (for small providers) for their Sew and Grow course that helps learners build English skills while learning hand and machine sewing.

Student Ayan Daher – also from Kensington Neighbourhood House – received the Ro Allen Award that recognises pre-accredited learner excellence in skills for study and life. Ayan mentors other students at Sew and Grow and plans to establish her own business creating clothing for Muslim girls and women.

10 of 25 finalists were from regional Victoria, showcasing the sector’s reach across the state and wide range of programs on offer.

Learn Locals play an important role in post-secondary education by supporting Victorians to access the training they need to get the job they want or pursue further study.

The community-based organisations offer short, flexible courses for adults to develop skills in areas including literacy, numeracy, workplace and digital skills, with a key focus on supporting the individual needs of learners.

For the full list of finalists and award recipients visit the 2023 Learn Local Award winners(opens in a new window).

Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney

'Learn Locals play such an important role in our post-secondary education system by helping Victorians access the training they need to get the job they want or pursue further study. They deliver the skills needed right in the heart of our communities.'

'Congratulations to all Learn Locals winners and finalists on your well-deserved achievements. Once again it is inspiring to see how Learn Locals support people to change their lives through community-based education.'

Quotes attributable to Adult, Community and Further Education Board Chair Teresa De Fazio

'The Learn Local Awards are a testament to the strength of adult community education and its pivotal role in enabling learners from all backgrounds to fulfil their potential.'

'Learn Locals open doors to fulfilling employment and study aspirations, that’s what is so special about them. They respond to learners and community needs.'