low literacy learners . Students who had never used a computer before are slowly learning to use the mouse , to complete interactive alphabet activities and to type in English . Some have typed whole texts to which we have added pictures and printed for reading practice at home . Of course these activities would not be possible without the support of our dedicated volunteers .
Challenges
This term , one of the greatest challenges was absence and interrupted learning due to illness or students ’ responsibilities caring for sick family members . The class required a more structured use of volunteers to facilitate guided individual learning for those who had to catch up on missed work . This highlights the ongoing need for regular , committed and skilled volunteers in this class as students do not yet have the language or learning skills to work independently .
As with last term , it has been a challenge to gain meaningful feedback from learners , or to cover settlement topics that require in-depth discussion , without having funding for interpreters or bicultural workers . It would be wonderful to have on-site bilingual support three times a term .
The post office excursion was valuable , but many students have health issues that prevent them from walking long distances , so it would be great to have funding for transport to some more adventurous locations !
ESL 2
ESL 2 has had a busy and productive year . From the very first day , the students have worked enthusiastically and diligently to improve their English . Some of the students are so eager to learn that they have to be persuaded to leave their desks for a morning tea break ! In addition to all the hard work , there has been plenty of fun and laughter in ESL 2 , and everyone has supported each other in their efforts to learn English .
In 2012 , our class has participated in the NAB Reading Group Program . Students have enjoyed this very much as it has given them the opportunity to practise intensive reading in small groups . We have also been lucky enough to work with a lovely group of regular volunteers , whose assistance in the classroom has been greatly appreciated .
This year Jong has been volunteering in the garden at CERES , as part of the ‘ Breaking Down Barriers ’ program . He has thoroughly enjoyed going to CERES every Monday and has gained valuable skills and experience as well as having the opportunity to practise English in a workplace context . Many thanks to Lisa and Don for their support .
Our class has also started looking after the FLN Community Garden plot as it is close to our classroom , and several students who are keen on gardening have been happy to assist when we finish class each Thursday . We have also enjoyed excursions to the local library and shops , as well as attending the ‘ Family Album ’ photography exhibition at ACU .
Health and Wellbeing Program
The program addresses the physical and emotional health issues faced by many women in the community specifically focusing on women from refugee , asylum seeker and migrant backgrounds . These women arrive in Australia with physical pains and injuries from the difficult life they have led . Their opportunities for exercise and relaxation are limited due to time and children and for many it is not culturally familiar to incorporate regular exercise or sporting activities into their weekly routines . They feel more comfortable having their own private space to exercise .
Each week , at the Fitzroy Learning Network , a group of women meet for a hours class . A variety of physical activity has been introduced to the women , with dance and yoga proving to be the most popular . These activities are popular amongst the group as they particularly target both the reduction of stress and relief from physical aches and pains . The weekly classes also further encourage interaction amongst the community , as the members attending the group come from many varied cultural backgrounds .
This program is funded by the Clifton Hill / North Fitzroy Community Bank Branch – Bendigo Bank
Fitzroy Learning Network Annual Report 2011 / 12 13