The CEO

Transmission will resume shortly......

Due to staffing changes and re-establishment of our offices after the February Bushfires in Victoria, the offices of the Central Ranges LLEN will be temporarily closed from Thursday 25th of June until Monday 13th of July. If you have contacted our office, we will endeavour to reply to your email or voicemail as soon as we can, but we would encourage you to make contact with us again when our office re-opens on July 13th. Updates regarding our association's activities can be found here on our web site or on ; Twitter at twitter.com/crllen [If you follow us on Twitter, you might win one of our mystery prizes!] or Flickr at http://www.flickr.com/photos/crllen/ We apologise for any inconvenience our temporary closure may cause.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 25 June 2009; 5:50:28 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

What's in a Month?

What an incredible month has just passed for the members and stakeholders of the Central Ranges LLEN. There is considerable strategic activity happening across all sectors and local government areas served by the Central Ranges LLEN. Here is a snapshot. Trade Training Centre Application - After twelve months of planning, 400 hours of project work and over 20 meetings including all the Principals, many senior staff and the school councils of the 10 Government Secondary and Catholic Secondary Schools in the shires of Mitchell, Murrindindi, Strathobogie and City of Whittlesea, collaborated on a 15Million dollar, region-wide capital investment strategy [co-ordinated across all partners schools] for enhanced Trades Training Facilities covering all 3,500 year 9-12 students in Government and Catholic schools. The application was submitted to the Commonwealth Government on June 9th. Prime Minister visits bushfire reconstruction - The Prime Minister, The Hon. Kevin Rudd and Parliamentary Secretary for the Victorian Bushfires, Mr. Bill Shorten made low-key personal visits to Flowerdale and Kinglake this week to review the status of the recovery and reconstruction effort. Winter is now upon us and condition across many of the worst affected areas will begin to deteriorate rapidly as mud, slush sleet and snow increase across the region. The Bushfire-assistance fund established by the Board of the Central Ranges LLEN is still operating and has assisted many students and families with the purchase of new equipment, transport and other items to assist with education and training needs. A Skills and Training Dividend - The Board of the Central Ranges LLEN is corresponding directly with both the Chair of the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority Ms. Christine Nixon and the Federal Parliamentary Secretary for Victorian Bushfires, Mr. Bill Shorten. The purpose of this dialogue is to ensure that both the immediate and longer-term reconstruction efforts include planning that will encourage and stimulate the creation of higher level training, apprenticeships and pathways opportunities for local people. Within this dialogue, the Department of Education, Employment & Workplace Relations [DEEWR] invited the CEO of the CRLLEN to make one of the three presentations at a region-wide meeting for Employment Services Providers, Centrelink, Australian and State Government departments and the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and Recovery Authority, in South Morang today, Friday 29th May 2009. Marysville Triangle Reconstruction - As part of this very important work, the Central Ranges LLEN is also contributing detailed social, economic and youth labour market data to a study being conducted by the Boston Consulting Group on behalf of VBRRA to develop a planning framework and strategy for the reconstruction of the Marysville triangle. Members may not be aware that the VBRRA has also released its first report on activity to date. The 100 Day Report was presented to the Premier of Victoria, John Brumby, and Parliamentary Secretary for Bushfires, Bill Shorten, at the official opening of the Marysville Temporary Village on May 17th. Award Honours Local Business Trailblazer - The Hon. Jacinta Allan made the presentation of our "Trailblazers Award" to Ellamber Homes at our Annual General Meeting in Flowerdale. The Minister spoke of the importance of the work of the Local Learning and Employment Networks in coordination of education and employment pathways for young people making the transition from school to work. The Minister complimented the work of the many volunteers and stakeholders that come together to provide local, but strategically important planning decision that involve business and industry. Kyneton Education Plan - The school councils of Kyneton Primary School and Kyneton Secondary College met and approve the the basis of the new "Kyneton Education Plan". The two schools will join with the kindergarten and create a school of about 1,100 students. The Kyneton Education Plan, involves the proposed merger of Kyneton Primary School, Kyneton Secondary College and Lady Brooks Kindergarten in a K-12 school (that also includes early childhood and allied health services)   Note: Have you caught us on Twitter yet? Our Twitter ID is CRLLEN   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 12 June 2009; 11:09:35 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Back online....

Dear Members and Subscribers, Our new web facility is up and running and our transfer is complete. We now have our new mapping and data applications running! We apologise for any inconvenience caused by the website being offline.       Posted by Bill Coppinger on 28 May 2009; 8:50:06 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Web Site Offline May 28th

SYSTEM MAINTENANCE WEB-SITE OFFLINE This is advance notice to advise all subscribers that the Central Ranges LLEN Website will be unavailable from approximately: 1:00pm TODAY Australian Eastern Standard Time [AEST] Thursday 28th May 2009 until approximately 5:00pm. Access to our website, all forums and online databases will be also be interrupted. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause. This is an unscheduled system event. The Central Ranges LLEN has to move its web server after seven very productive years with our current service provider. Our web address REMAINS the SAME: www.centralrangesllen.org.au We are co-locating our equipment to new premises that will require a physical movement of our web server and it is necessary to stop all services during this time. Before trying to access the Central Ranges LLEN Web Site after 5:00pm on Thursday 28th May 2009, we encourage you to "quit and restart" your web-browser. For those interested, we are upgrading our systems. An image of part of our new server team can be seen here:   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 28 May 2009; 12:38:41 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

2009 Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission

Community consultation sessions Community Consultations Sessions will occur in: Where? When? What Time ? Kinglake Kinglake National Park Hotel [Google Map ] 28 Main Rd, Kinglake Monday 23 March 2009 11.30am-1.00pm or 2.30pm – 4.00pm Kinglake West Kinglake West Mechanics Institute [Google Map ] 1055 Kinglake Whittlesea Rd Tuesday 24 March 2009 11.30am-1.00pm or 2.30pm – 4.00pm Wandong Magpie & Stump Hotel [Google Map ] Epping-Kilmore Rd Friday 27 March 2009 11.30am – 1.00pm or 2.30pm – 4.00pm Marysville Marysville Golf & Bowls Club [Google Map] 956 Marysville-Buxton Rd Monday 6 April 2009 Tuesday 7 April 2009 11.30am-1.00pm or 2.30pm – 4.00pm 11.30am-1.00pm or 2.30pm – 4.00pm   Registration is essential. The purpose of the consultations is for individuals from fire-affected communities to discuss their views about key issues in relation to the inquiry to be conducted by the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission. The consultation sessions are open to those Victorians who live or work in the communities directly affected by the bushfires which the Royal Commission is visiting. Seating is limited so you are encouraged to register promptly. Please tell us if you require accessibility assistance. Details can be found at: www.centralrangesllen.org.au/bushfireconsultations09   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 23 March 2009; 10:16:46 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Winds a major threat as Victorians put on alert

The ABC reports that Victorians are being warned to prepare for what could be one of the worst fire danger days in the history of the state tomorrow, Tuesday 3rd March 2009. Fire authorities say gale force winds forecast for tonight and tomorrow may mean water-bombing aircraft can not be used in some regions across Victoria. We call on all members and partners of the Central Ranges LLEN to prepare carefully and stay safe.   Online Transfers and Donations to the Central Ranges Bushfire Relief Fund are still being accepted   We have raised close to Ten Thousand Dollars in TEN DAYS!   http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/bushfirefund2009   Online PAYPAL Donations available NOW!   or You can complete an EFT Transfer from Bank to Bank BSB: 803 140 Account #: 23196700 (Internal Title: Bushfire Appeal) Account Name: Central Ranges LLEN All the details can be found online at: http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/bushfirefund2009 Posted by Bill Coppinger on 2 March 2009; 1:39:20 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Communties Need our Help!

Dear members and friends of the Central Ranges LLEN. Communities across Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires have been devastated by Bushfires in the last 24 hours. A number of other communities are still under threat, as are many of our members. We will shortly advise our members of opportunities to contribute to a Disaster Relief fund for students and their families affected by the devastating Bush Fires. Thank you to all the well wishers and your communications of support. We would ask that you hold any further email or phone communications as we have lost one of our offices in the fire. Our web site forum is the best way to communicate with us. Thankyou Bill Coppinger Sent from iPhone Posted by Bill Coppinger on 8 February 2009; 4:16:28 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (16 responses)

Help us S H I F T some more....

S H I F T H A P P E N S ? Can't see the YouTube Video? Try this alternative!     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 23 January 2009; 9:43:07 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians

In the busy rush to Christmas, many members may have missed the developments related to the Australian Education Ministers’ First Biennial Forum and the "Melbourne Declaration". On Friday 5 December 2008, Minister Pike and Deputy Prime Minister Gillard launched the new Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians, on behalf of all Australian Education Ministers. The Declaration sets out two goals: Australian Schooling Promotes Equity and Excellence All young Australians become: Successful learners Confident and creative individuals Active and informed citizens. The Declaration includes a Commitment to Action, which identifies eight inter-related areas where all Australian Governments commit to action to support achievement of the goals. In a statement that reinforces the Data provided by the LLEN to stakeholders over the last six years, the Declaration notes that by comparison with the world’s highest performing school systems, Australian students from low socioeconomic backgrounds are under-represented among high achievers and over represented among low achievers. It also states there is room for improvement in Australia’s rate of Year 12 completion or equivalent. LLEN members and stakeholders can download and read the Declaration which is available from the following link: Melbourne Declaration on Educational Goals for Young Australians   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 8 January 2009; 3:00:46 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Compliments of the Season!

We wish you Peace and Happiness for the Holiday Season!   On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network Inc, we extend the compliments of the season to all our members, partners, community supporters, colleagues and friends that have supported our work in 2008. On behalf of the many hundreds of young people that have been directly or indirectly supported by the efforts of the partnerships created by the central Ranges LLEN, we thank all our members and look forward to an even more productive year in 2009 and beyond. We send a special thank you and best wishes to Natasha Geoghegan, our office manager, who has moved back to New South Wales. Good luck Natasha ! We wish you a happy and peaceful year in 2009.   Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year !     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 23 December 2008; 3:07:07 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Student Mapping Tool Updated

Australian research has shown that early school leavers are more likely to exhibit certain characteristics or be exposed to certain risk factors. These include poor attendance, low literacy or numeracy, disrupted relationships with teachers and peers, a low income family background, and a range of other obstacles to school completion. In Victoria, the Managed Individual Pathways (MIPs) initiative ensures that all students 15 years and over in government schools are provided with individual pathway plans with associated support as a means to continued education, training or full-time employment. The Student Mapping Tool that was developed by the Brimbank Melton LLEN and the Victorian Department of Education [and is available to all Victorian schools free of charge] has recently been updated and all changes will be available to schools from December 2nd. A memo sent to all schools on November 25th 2008 [ S453-2008 Enhancements to the Student Mapping Tool ] outlines the enhancements that have been made to the Student Mapping Tool in response to feedback from users. Further details and full links can be found by following the link to our Student Mapping Tool Resource Page.   www.centralrangesllen.org.au/sarmappingtool   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 29 November 2008; 12:02:28 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Education Policy [International]- Masters opportunity

Dear Members, network partners and colleagues. Please find some links to information about the Master of Education Policy (International) (MEPI) program that is run by the University of Melbourne, which may be of interest to you, your staff, network colleagues or anyone interested in post-compulsory education and training systems. The Centre for Post-compulsory Education and Lifelong Learning [CPELL], located within the Melbourne Graduate School of Education, has been providing this course since 2004. During 2008 there have been more than 50 students enrolled in the "MEPI" from across Australia including students from Queensland, NSW, the ACT, Tasmania, South Australia and Western Australia in addition to those from Melbourne and regional Victoria. Originally a full-fee course, from the beginning of 2008 the MEPI has been offered in Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) mode (subject fees in this mode were $1019.25 during 2008). The course can be completed full-time or part-time: over 12 months, 18 months or two years. The focus of the course is on post-compulsory education and training systems, i.e. it focuses on the school, vocational education and training, university and labour market interface for 15-20 year-olds. One subject – Education Policy in Australia - (25%) deals in detail with the Australian policy framework, while Comparative Education Policy (25%) and Education Policy - International Study (25%) focus on European systems in the OECD context. The remaining subject (Education Policy - Negotiated Project – 25%) allows participants to focus on their own professional context. A key feature of the MEPI is the Education Policy - International Study, a three week intensive Study Tour in three European countries. Further information, including the structure of the course, the teaching staff and the scheduled session dates for 2009, is in the attached document. Please email Dr. Veronica Volkoff on vvolkoff@unimelb.edu.au or call on 03 8344 8392 if you or any of your colleagues have any questions or would like further information. Dr Veronica Volkoff Senior Research Fellow Centre for Post-compulsory Education and Lifelong Learning (CPELL) Melbourne Graduate School of Education Level 3 Doug McDonell Building The University of Melbourne Victoria 3010   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 8 November 2008; 5:11:00 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Region's Educators Succeed For Most at Risk

Arte Non Vi Vibrant, engaged and future-focused young people are the corner-stone of any healthy and functioning community. Since 2003, the board of the Central Ranges LLEN has been closely monitoring the labour market, employment, income and education status of all 15-24 year olds across the Macedon Ranges, Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires. We are pleased to report that in the board's recently published environmental scan 2008-2011, the number of 15-24 year olds across the Central Ranges LLEN region who have been most at risk by being out of work, not in training and not earning an income, has been reduced by a massive 40%. In some individual communities across the region, the reduction measured has been up to 75%! According to the Business Council of Australia's own calculations in their 2002 report "The Cost of Dropping Out", this would save the community just on $20 Million dollars in productivity, health and justice related costs. Not to mention what this means for the life chances of individuals who are able to reconnect to learning or employment!!! The board congratulates all of the Government, Catholic and Independent schools, TAFE's, Adult Community Education providers and Community Agencies across the CRLLEN Region for what can only be described as a stunning result in supporting some of the most disadvantaged young people in our community. This has come about by these groups establishing programmes, partnerships and often incredible dedication by individuals to better align educational opportunities with the real needs of young people. There is still a lot to do, but these results are extremely encouraging. These reductions are well in advance of the "average" or background changes in the youth population. The board works closely with, but is independent of, all government and private sector education and training providers. We are funded by, but as an independent incorporated association, are independent of state government. This allows us to independently monitor how our communities are going compared to others around the State. We take this independence very seriously to ensure we can work with all sectors and all government jurisdictions. All communities, no matter how large or small have a responsibility to nurture and assist in the transition from youth to adulthood, from school to further education and employment. The new 2008-2011 Environmental Scan is now complete and will be circulated to all association members before the end of the year. It is the intent of the Central Ranges LLEN Board to assist in improving the understanding in our communities about the challenges and opportunities facing our young people and to continue to vigorously and aggressively advocate for the needs of young people across the CRLLEN Region. The subtitle of the new scan is Our Communities, Our stories. As part of this work, we are developing a series of tools that will help us see complex information and data about our communities in new and easy ways to understand . We are providing you with a "sneak peek" of some of this work, in what we call our Skills Dashboard. Details can be found by following the link below:   Andrew Hocking Chairperson   www.centralrangesllen.org.au/dashboard     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 12 September 2008; 8:32:55 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

NAIDOC Week 2008

NAIDOC celebrations are held around Australia in July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. NAIDOC originally stood for ‘National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee’. This committee was once responsible for organising national activities during NAIDOC Week and its acronym has become the name of the week itself. The week is celebrated not just in the Indigenous community, but also in increasing numbers of government agencies, schools, local councils and workplaces. This year's NAIDOC Week theme is "Advance Australia Fair?" A whole range of activities will be taking place all week right across Victoria. Reconciliation Victoria has a downloadable copy [236KB] of the official calendar of events . Related Links: Reconciliation Victoria National NAIDOC Posted by Bill Coppinger on 9 July 2008; 12:38:58 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Do you Know?

Posted by Bill Coppinger on 5 July 2008; 2:57:53 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Victorian Budget 2008

The Victorian State Budget for 2008-2009 was presented to Parliament today Tuesday May 6th 2008 by the Hon. John Lenders MP. According to the Treasurer's speech, ...the 2008-09 Budget takes action to deliver the infrastructure, projects and services needed to secure Victoria’s future. This budget tackles pressing issues in areas such as health, education, transport, community safety and climate change, as well as meeting the challenges posed by our rapidly growing population. This budget also delivers new investment in regional Victoria and Melbourne's high growth suburbs, and a major package of support for families. This budget has a number of very significant implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a detailed set of focused links to key budget areas which includes YouTube interviews with key Ministers. Included are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from a range of Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it an assessment of the details of the announcements. Treasurer Lenders on YouTube. We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s]. Please point your web browser to Victorian State Budget 2008 www.centralrangesllen.org.au/vicbudget0809   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 6 May 2008; 6:07:41 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

Dust in the Central Ranges

Dust Storm over Kilmore Gap - Wednesday 2nd April 2008   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 2 April 2008; 5:36:15 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Fifteen Foundation - The Kitchen is OPEN!

Do you know anyone ...16-24 yrs old? Unemployed? Not in full-time education? Have they experienced homelessness, drug or alcohol problems, or been involved with the law? More importantly... do they love to cook? The Fifteen Foundation training program is OPEN again. The programme combines time spent at TAFE, work placement at Melbourne’s top restaurants, fantastic produce sourcing trips and cooking in the Fifteen Melbourne restaurant under the expert guidance of a team of talented and passionate chefs. If you know any young people that might benefit from this, send them to the link below! Applications are open from Monday 17th March and close Friday 18th April. http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/ourfuturesvoices/   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 20 March 2008; 4:30:39 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (3 responses)

National Apology To The Stolen Generations

Today at 9:00am, the Prime Minister of Australia, Mr Kevin Rudd, unconditionally apologised to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders on behalf of the Parliament and Government for the forced removal of children [The Stolen Generation] from families during a large part of the 20th Century. The speech was read at exactly 9am, as the very first action of the second sitting day of the 42nd Parliament of Australia. Former prime ministers Paul Keating, Bob Hawke, Gough Whitlam and Malcolm Fraser and former Governor General Sir William Deane were all seated on the floor of the Parliament as well as 17 people representing the stolen generation. After the motion, Mr. Rudd went on to say: "These stories cry out to be heard, they cry out for an apology. "Instead from the nation's Parliament there has been a stony and stubborn and deafening silence for more than a decade. "A view that somehow we the Parliament should suspend our most basic instincts of what is right and what is wrong. "A view that instead we should look for any pretext to push this great wrong to one side. "To leave it languishing with the historians, the academics and the cultural warriors as if the stolen generations are little more than an interesting sociological phenomenon. "But the stolen generations are not intellectual curiosities, they are human beings, human beings who have been damaged deeply by the decisions of parliaments and governments. "But as of today the time for denial, the time for delay, has at last come to an end."   A full copy of the speech can be found online here: The Apology 2008 Listen to the Prime Minister's Speech here.   Related Links: ABC Online - The Apology The Age Newspaper Sydney Morning Herald The Associated Press The BBC Bloomberg Christian Science Monitor CNN Voice of America New Zealand Herald SkyNews Online Posted by Bill Coppinger on 13 February 2008; 10:59:38 AM from the The CEO dept. National_Apology2008.mp3 Discuss (2 responses)

Congratulations to CRLLEN Members!

Congratulations to our two iPod Winners! Our "Shift Happens" iPod was won by Carol Fisher, congratulations! Our member survey 2007 [have your say] prize was won by Leni May, congratulations! Both iPods have been dispatched and should arrive this week! Thanks again for supporting the work of the Central Ranges LLEN.           Posted by Bill Coppinger on 4 February 2008; 3:23:00 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

S H I F T - H A P P E N S

S h i f t H a p p e n s   www.centralrangesllen.org.au/shifthappens Congratulations to Carol Fisher you have won an iPod!     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 17 December 2007; 5:57:11 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (8 responses)

Premier announces new model for future schools

The State Government has unveiled a plan for the private sector to design, build and operate 10 schools in Melbourne's outer suburbs. Premier John Brumby announced the public-private partnership (PPP) proposal, under which a private consortium would run the schools for 25 years, in Melbourne's outer west. The consortiums would build the schools on public land and be responsible for the management, maintenance and cleaning of the properties, Mr Brumby. They would have no say on teaching or the curriculum. "These partnerships will deliver modern schools for modern teaching," Mr Brumby said. Education Minister Bronywn Pike said the plan would provide better facilities for public school students. “These projects will help us to bring plans for new schools forward and deliver new schools for students in growing parts of Melbourne,” Ms Pike said. “While we have a record level of investment in our schools with a $1.9 billion program to rebuild, extend or renovate every government school across the state by 2017, we know we could do even more. “Investment in school infrastructure can improve the performance of individual schools and contribute to broader educational improvements across the State.” Today’s announcement follows an investigation into the feasibility of using public private partnerships to create new schools conducted by Minister Pike and Treasurer John Lenders. [Source: Dept Premier and Cabinet & The Age ] Related Links: Press Release - Premier of Victoria The Future of Schooling in Australia [Premier and Cabinet] ABC News Online The Brisbane Times The West Australian Posted by Bill Coppinger on 6 December 2007; 7:54:43 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (6 responses)

New Minister and "Super" Ministry for Education

Former Victorian education minister John Lenders has been named as Treasurer in Premier John Brumby's new Cabinet. Premier John Brumby has made major changes to the planning, education, and community portfolios in the Cabinet reshuffle announced this afternoon. The Hon. Bronwyn Pike will head what the Government calls a new "super department" for Education and Early Childhood Development, assisted by new Cabinet member Maxine Morand. Ms Morand will become the Minister for Children and Early Childhood Development. Under the plan, children's services will move from Human Services to Ms Pike's new department. "It will be great news importantly for young children... starting off in the kindergarten system and being better prepared as they go on to school and later in life," Mr Brumby said. The full press release with the entire Cabinet rundown, can be downloaded from here.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 2 August 2007; 4:38:38 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Victorian Premier Resigns

News services across Victoria are reporting that Premier Steve Bracks has stepped down as Premier and resigned from Parliament. News services report: VICTORIAN Premier Steve Bracks has stunningly quit politics, citing personal reasons for his decision and a realisation that he could not continue to dedicate all his energy to his job. Mr Bracks said he intended to make "a new and different life outside of politics". "I leave politics proud of what has been achieved, proud of what we have done, and confident of Labor's future in this state," Mr Bracks said. "For me, it is the right time to step down."   News.com.au ABC news Posted by Bill Coppinger on 27 July 2007; 11:14:16 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

And the Winners Are....

Congratulations to...... Narelle Pritchard from Gisborne Secondary College and Jo Whiteman from Broadford Secondary College Congratulations to Jo Whiteman and Narelle Pritchard. They have each won an iPod Nano as part of the LLEN promotion to encourage users to leave comments and feedback about the Future Minds Forum ! We will be giving away three additional iTunes Music Store Vouchers, each to the value of 30 Dollars , over the coming week, so please consider leaving a comment or feedback in our forums! The link is: http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/discuss/ [You will need to register, if you have not already done so! ]   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 19 July 2007; 3:07:33 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Future Minds - Followup

Information for Participants Future Minds Forum July 2007 For the benefit of participants, we have added a series of online resources or "conference kit" that includes an exclusive list of materials, research, podcasts, and web links, all available for participants of the Future Minds Forum 2007. These can be found in the online forum here. [A login is required]   We will post copies of presentations and additional podcasts to this forum. As an added incentive to encourage you to introduce yourself online or simply leave a comment, we will be giving away two Apple Ipod Nanos early next week. All you need to do to enter the competition is to leave a short introduction or comment. Something about yourself, your work or your thoughts about our Future Minds Forum. We will draw the prizes on Tuesday 17th of July.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 13 July 2007; 1:55:11 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Future Minds Forum Now Closed

Registrations Now Closed!   We have now closed registrations to our Future Minds Forum with Professor Howard Gardner. We are very proud to be offering this opportunity to the education community and we thank your for your support. A 'digital' conference programme will be circulated to all participants shortly.   Programme information can be found here . Posted by Bill Coppinger on 15 June 2007; 3:17:50 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Who's looking at us?

The Central Ranges LLEN Website has had 1,590 visits from 178 cities in the past week. The top nine cities in order are: Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide, Auckland, Bairnsdale, Canberra, Ballarat The top ten [other] international cities in order are: Dublin, Buenos Aires, Miami, Babson Park, Ottawa, Washington, Moscow, Thomasville, Orlando, Mountain View [Source: Google Analytics] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 9 June 2007; 3:11:03 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

Australian Federal Budget at a Glance: VET funding increased

The Federal Treasurer, Peter Costello handed down his twelfth federal Budget last night, Tuesday 9th of May. As we do for each State and Federal budget, we will provide a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included in the list below will be links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from the Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This is a short "at a glance" response. More details will follow. At a glance.. First and second year apprentices under 30 will be given a tax free $1,000 wage boost; other apprentices will be provided with up to $500 each year towards their TAFE or other training fees; and FEE-HELP will admit full fee-paying students in a VET accredited Diploma and Advanced Diploma where agreed credit for a university degree is granted to the student. People with a disability will also receive $8.7 million in new funding to access post-school education and training. We will post a detailed summary next week.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 9 May 2007; 10:52:55 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Victorian State Budget

The Victorian State Budget for 2007-2008 was presented to Parliament on Tuesday May 1st 2007. According the Treasurer's speech, the 2007-08 Budget delivers the commitments made to the Victorian people by the Bracks Government at the 2006 state election. The budget continues to create the conditions for sustainable economic growth in a difficult global environment, with a focus on building a competitive economy and tackling Victoria's future challenges. The budget also delivers a major new affordable housing package and commences the biggest school rebuilding program in Victoria's history. This budget has a number of very significant implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from a range of Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it an assessment of the details of the announcements. We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s]. We have established a separate discussion forum topic to raise questions and discuss issues. To view the full budget summary, please point your browswer to Victorian Budget 2007 Posted by Bill Coppinger on 7 May 2007; 5:28:05 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

How do you save Five Million Dollars?

Easy.... Community Partnerships... Based on our calculations using the Business Council of Australia's "cost of dropping out" research, the combined CBVCAL programmes across Mitchell and Macedon have supported 109 young people as at 31st December 2006 and have saved the community between 4.03 and 6.54 Million dollars in lost productivity, additional welfare/policing or justice related costs. An amazing set of numbers. More importantly than the effects we can easily count, is the undoubted life-long impact a young person benefits from by re-connecting with their own talents and opportunities for a constructive and fulfilling life in the community. The Kyneton/Macedon project alone has saved the National and State budgets between 2.96 and 4.80 Million dollars and had a direct impact on over 80 young people. We are working very hard to get extra resources to maintain support for this amazing programme. The Macedon programme alone is catering for approxiately 60% of the total "at-risk" population of 15-24 year olds, [based on original 2003/04 figures] which is approximately 2.5 % of the TOTAL 15-19 population. Related Links Central Ranges LLEN Community Based VCAL FoodTalks - Community Building in Macedon Ranges 2006 Herald-Sun Reports on CBVCAL Impacts Macedon Launches CBVCAL 2004 Mitchell Shire Celebrates 12 Months of CBVCAL 2004 "YEA" -Youth Education for All -Baw Baw Latrobe LLEN Education Department CBVCAL Reources "Beyond the School Gate" - 2004 Research -EduWeb   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 2 March 2007; 8:58:09 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Welcome to 2007!

The Central Ranges LLEN is looking forward to working with all our members and stakeholders in 2007 to improve educational outcomes for young people across the Macedon, Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires. We have some very big announcements coming up in the next few weeks and some opportunities for all members of the CRLLEN. Watch this space closely over the coming weeks! It was wonderful to be driving across the district this morning and seeing so many "littlies" starting school for the first time, with bags and hats bigger than they are! What an amazing job our primary schools do each year! It was also wonderful to see so many of our secondary schools taking the next wave of enrolments of what I kindly and light-heartedly like to call "planet-teenager". I don't think any of us should under-estimate just how much work goes in to supporting our young adults make the transition from school to adult life.   It is clearly evident that many schools across the LLEN in the State, Catholic and Independent sectors have been hard at work over the summer, getting ready for the new school year. We hope to feature the work of many district schools in a series of online interviews and podcasts over 2007, to help the community get a better idea of what is happening in schools and TAFE's across the district and look to build links with the opportunities these new developments will present. One example of special note is the work being done at Broadford Secondary College. It is interesting to see considerable building works underway [ approx $3.7 Million] at present, designed to establish a new individualized approach to education and support of young people. We look forward to learning more about the unique plans both at Broadford and other district schools. We look forward to 2007   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 31 January 2007; 3:44:26 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Remembrance Day 2006

Remembrance Day 11:00am 11th November 2006 They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Hear the last Post [MP3] [Source: Dept Veterans Affairs] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 11 November 2006; 3:23:51 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Youth Guarantee, Early School Leavers Can Keep Learning

The Education and Training Reform Act 2006 provides a guaranteed place in TAFE Institutions, the Centre for Adult Education, Adult Multicultural Education Services and participating adult community education providers, to young people who have not completed Year 12 or its equivalent. This is an Australian first that guarantees a place at a school, TAFE or participating adult education centre for early school leavers until they reach 20 years of age, so they can finish year 12 or a training equivalent. Under the legislation, a person is eligible for a guaranteed place if he or she is under the age of 20 years on 1 January of the year in which the training takes place, and has not completed Year 12 or equivalent. The Youth Gaurantee website and additional information can be found by following this link. [Source Dept. of Education and Training] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 6 October 2006; 8:52:41 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Aptitude tests bypass VCE

The Herald Sun reports today that Victoria's biggest university is bypassing the VCE and moving to choose some students with aptitude tests. Monash University is running a pilot scheme where up to 500 students from underachieving schools can sit an aptitude test instead of using their ENTER score. Students usually receive a tertiary entrance ranking out of 100 at the end of their VCE and courses require a specific score for entry. But there are concerns ENTER scores do not reflect some students' potential to succeed at university, and students from poorly resourced schools are missing out. The new exam will be available for undergraduate degrees at Monash's Berwick campus, which include business/commerce, communication and IT. "There are large inner-city independent and Catholic schools that get a lion's share of the uni places," Dr Jensen said. "We believe that in outlying schools and schools in areas that don't have those resources, there are students that could still do well at university but may not be getting an ENTER score that reflects that." Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor Prof Stephen Parker said the university's aim of the trial was to admit the best students irrespective of means or circumstance. The full story can be found here. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 6 September 2006; 5:22:08 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Applied Learning Network Begins!

The first meeting of the newly formed Central Ranges Applied Learning Network [CRALN] held its first phone conference today at 3:30pm. All teachers, trainers and educators interested in Applied Learning are more than welcome to participate! In the first instance, we hope the network will be a simple sounding board for good practice, and knowledge sharing. We also hope to expand the network over time to consider longer-term professional development and community engagement models. Possible travel or study support for network members will also be something we hope to support. Participating in the first meeting was Bruce McInnes from Mansfield Secondary College, Christine Cox - Coordinator of the Local Community Partnership, Geoff Barett, Chairperson of the Central Ranges LLEN and Cobaw Community Health Service, and Bill Coppinger from the LLEN. A small but enthusiastic group! All agreed to continue to support and promote the idea of an applied learning network to colleagues. Support for teachers new to the field, interesting examples of timetabling and support for VET, SBNAs and an explanation of upcoming professional development opportunities were part of the agenda for the meeting today. Future meetings of the network will be supported by free-call phone conferencing and postings on the LLEN Applied Learning Network web pages. To register your interest in the future Tele-conferences, please reply to the discussion topic below and leave your name, and email contact. As this is a closed discussion forum, your email is safe from "spammers". Related Links Applied Learning Network    Discussion Forum for CRALN [Login required]     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 10 August 2006; 5:11:46 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

State-wide Youth Engagement Forum

Are you interested in Community Based VCAL Programmes? This forum is for Community VCAL practitioners, managers and stakeholders who collaborate to create alternative and engaging education programs for young people who are disengaged from mainstream schooling. Youth Commitments. This is for LLEN members and stakeholders interested in establishing a collaborative regional approach to sharing responsibility for ensuring that all young people are supported to attain Year 12 or an equivalent qualification. When: 18th August 2006 Where: Western Oval, Footscray West Cost: Nil: Registration is essential. RSVP: Ms. Louise Stewart Email. admin@sellen.org.au Please find attached a Registration Form for the State-wide LLEN Youth Engagement Forum (Community VCAL / Youth Commitment Initiatives). Download here: [919KB] Registrations are to be sent directly to Louise Stewart by Friday 11 August 2006.     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 1 August 2006; 7:06:28 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

Statement from the 20th MCEETYA Meeting.

State, Territory and Commonwealth Ministers with responsibility for Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs, met in Brisbane on 6 and 7 July for the 20th meeting of the Ministerial Council on Education, Employment, Training and Youth Affairs [MCEETYA]. Motions unanimously passed by all members of the Council included:National literacy and numeracy testing; Literacy and numeracy reform; National standards for Year 12 curriculum and assessment. Ministers agreed to further examine a common minimum school starting age. The financial implications of a common school starting age of 4 years and 6 months will be investigated, together with whether this would have an educational benefit when compared with starting ages currently in place. [Source:EdNa]   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 19 July 2006; 6:55:49 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Join our World Community Grid Project Team Today!

This is the home page of IBM's World Community Grid. The Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network received confirmation last week from Robin Willner, Vice President of Global Community Initiatives for IBM Corporation, New York, that the Central Ranges Local Learning and Employment Network had become an official World Community Grid partner. The World Community Grid web site is displaying our Logo as one of the five newest partners. www.centralrangesllen.org.au/communitygrid   What is World Community Grid? World Community Grid's mission is to create the largest public computing grid benefiting humanity. The work is built on the belief that technological innovation combined with visionary scientific research and large-scale volunteerism can change the world for the better. Our success depends on individuals - like you - collectively contributing their unused computer time to this not-for-profit endeavor. The Central Ranges LLEN wants to use this as a demonstration project for all its members and has allowed us to develop a constructive relationship with IBM as a community/business partner. Like a screen saver, grid technology is easy to use, safe and free. For all the details and a chance to win a great prize, please point your web browser to:   www.centralrangesllen.org.au/communitygrid   World Community Grid, the name and logo, are trademarks of International Business Machines Corporation in the U.S., other countries, or both, and are used under license.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 26 June 2006; 4:35:24 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Victorian Budget 2006 - 2007

State Budget 2006-2007 The Victorian State Budget was presented to Parliament on Tuesday 30th May 2006. According the Treasurer's speech, the 2006-07 Budget invests to record levels in schools, skills and infrastructure. This budget has a number of very significant implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included in the list are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from a range of Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s]. www.centralrangesllen.org.au/vicbudget0607 We have established a separate discussion forum topic to raise questions and discuss issues around the budget announcements. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 2 June 2006; 9:58:56 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Aust. Budget 2006 - 2007

The Australian Federal Budget was handed down on Tuesday the 9th of May with a number of implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included in the list are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from the Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it an assessment of the details of the annnouncements. We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s]. A number of announcements have been made that may [and will] compliment a number of initiatives currently being pursued by the Board of the Central Ranges LLEN and its partners. The full budget outline can be found here.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 14 May 2006; 1:53:44 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Where is the LLEN?

Mapping the CRLLEN A handy little tool called 'FRAPPR' and using the power of Google Earth, we have been able to map the location of members of the LLEN and users of our web site. The map opposite shows the distribution of around 40 members of the Central Ranges LLEN. We know we have over 120 members of the association and over 170 subscribers to the Web Site from 4 countries. It is completely voluntary, so why not consider sticking a pin in the map? To get the full details and some helpful hints about using this mapping technology, have a little fun along the way and win a mystery prize, point your web browser to: http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/googlemap   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 22 February 2006; 10:06:38 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

COAG has Education on the Agenda

The Council of Australian Governments (COAG) held its 17th meeting recently in Canberra. The Council, comprising the Prime Minister, Premiers, Chief Ministers and the President of the Australian Local Government Association, had detailed discussions on a number of issues of national importance. Among the education and training issues discussed, COAG made committments in the areas of early childhood development, literacy and numeracy, transition from school to work or further study, and adult learning. The Communique from COAG contains further information. Details can be found here.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 14 February 2006; 10:11:39 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

CRLLEN providers meet with Cisco

CRLLEN Education providers meet with Cisco Networking Academy. Educators from all sectors in the Central Ranges LLEN Region were invited to attend a morning presentation at the beautiful Kilmore Town Hall Cafe, by Sean McCormick, Area Manager -Australia and New Zealand for Cisco Networking Academy. Participants included representatives from the Kinglake Neighborhood House, ACFE Regional Councils, Kyneton, Gisborne, Euroa, Yea and Assumption Colleges and Cutting Edge Youth Services. The Cisco Networking Academy Program is a not-for-profit initiative of Cisco Systems to provide schools with low cost equipment, professional development and high quality e-learning materials linked to IT industry certifications. In addition to its highly regarded CCNA program, a range of other academy programs now exist from computer maintenance to wireless networking and security. Most programs can be easily integrated within VCE technology subjects. With some new programs requiring little additional equipment, schools can establish academies at relatively low cost. Cisco Systems is working with Central Ranges schools and community houses to provide free instructor training to assist with the development of the program.  The required instructor training will enable an education provider to become an academy for its computer maintenance curriculum – Information Technology Essentials 1. For the full story, please follow this link To download course outlines and details for VCE and VCAL 'mappings', please login to the discussion area here. [Login required]   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 14 November 2005; 2:18:22 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (21 responses)

Lest We Forget

Remembrance Day 11:00am 11th November 2005 They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them. Hear the last Post [MP3] [Source: Dept Veterans Affairs] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 11 November 2005; 11:48:50 AM from the The CEO dept. LastPost.mp3 Discuss

Broadband Rollout to 1600 Victorian Schools Underway

Work has started to provide broadband Internet services to more than 1600 Victorian Government school under the Victorian Government's $89 million VicSmart initiative funded in this year's State Budget and launched in Mitchell Shire's Upper Plenty Primary school.   Related Links The Age Newspaper article 24th October. CRLLEN's - COINS Initiative 146 Million ICT Announcement 'SmartOne' Announcement Summary of State Budget 2005-2006   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 24 October 2005; 5:58:43 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Web usage phenomonal !

In the last 24 hours, the Central Ranges LLEN Website has experienced a relatively huge spike in the number of downloads and subscriptions to our three Podcasts! We have experienced a 15000% [yes that's right] increase in bandwidth use overnight. The rate is currently still climbing! This is an excellent result, although it also highlights how difficult it is to plan for exponential growth on the internet! We have inadvertently exceeded the Monthly Bandwidth Usage of our internet service provider and some aspects of our service have been disabled until we can increase our bandwidth. We are working with our Hosting Company to ascertain the appropriate additional levels that we believe will support the current and projected demand. We apologise to our members and site users if they have been disadvantaged in any way. All content has been maintained and we have scaled up our bandwidth to ensure users and members are not disadvantaged in any way. We apologise for any inconvenience. You can read the full story here. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 11 October 2005; 5:54:26 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

High Pressure!

While not directly related to the LLEN, but certainly this tidbit of information from our live weather station will interest many. It shows we have had one of the highest "high pressure" systems ever recorded for this time of year, with a top of 1041hPa recorded at the Kilmore Gap today. An online tutorial produced by the Bureau of Meteorolgy on predicting the weather can be found here:     Highest recorded pressure: 1041.0 hPa on 20-Jul-2005 at 11:56     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 20 July 2005; 7:58:13 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Dr. Gardner wins ASTD Lifetime Achievement Award

Harvard Graduate School of Education Professor Howard Gardner has won the American Society for Training and Development's Lifetime Achievement in Workplace Learning and Performance award. The award recognizes an individual for a body of work that has had significant impact on the field of workplace learning and performance. Howard Gardner's pioneering theory of multiple intelligences has transformed the understanding of leadership, education, and human development. The CRLLEN was honoured to have Dr. Gardner as the keynote speaker at our 2005 Annual General Meeting and Industry Forum. You can listen to his presentation from this link. On behalf of the Board of Directors and members of the CRLLEN, we congratulate Dr. Gardner on this award. Pioneer of Multiple Intelligence Theory Receives Lifetime Achievement Award. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 1 July 2005; 2:27:51 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

PodCast Network lists CRLLEN

The Education Podcast Network is an effort to bring together into one place, the wide range of podcast programming that may be helpful to teachers looking for content to teach with and about, and to explore issues of teaching and learning in the 21st century. They have recently listed the Central Ranges LLEN Podcast of Dr. Howard Gardner at our "Three Pillars Forum" in May 2005. The Education Podcast Network can be found at: http://epnweb.org/ The Podcast of the Three Pillars forum can be found here: http://www.centralrangesllen.org.au/forum2005 What is PodCasting? Posted by Bill Coppinger on 24 June 2005; 9:12:34 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Minister Thomson in Seymour - Broadband Framework

The Honourable Marsha Thomson, Minister for Information and Communications Technology and Minister for Consumer Affairs, met with representatives of the CRLLEN Board, Industry, Local Government Economic Development groups and education providers from the Mitchell, Murrindindi and Macedon Shires, for a light dinner at the Seymour Campus of the Goulburn Ovens TAFE to discuss the release of the Victorian Broadband Framework and the "SmartOne" initiative. The Minister said "the government is committed to improving government service delivery through new and innovative technologies and access to broadband is critical to achieving this objective." To read the full story, please follow this link. Related Links • Central Ranges LLEN Telecommunications Infrastructure Plan "COINS"     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 11 May 2005; 11:43:07 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Aust. Budget 2005-2006

The Australian Federal Budget has been handed down last night/today with a number of very significant implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included in the list below are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from the Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it an assessment of the details of the annnouncements.We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s]. A number of announcements have been made today that may [and will] compliment a number of initiatives currently being pursued by the Board of the Central Ranges LLEN and its partners.   Follow this link to read the full story.   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 11 May 2005; 6:57:52 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

State Budget 2005-2006

State Budget 2005-2006 The Victorian State Budget has been handed down today with a number of very significant implications for LLEN Members and stakeholders. As a service to members we have provided a set of focused links to key budget areas. Included in the list below are links to full budget documentation as well as summarised Press Releases from a range of Ministerial Portfolios relevant to the work of the LLEN. This list is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is it an assessment of the details of the annnouncements.We encourage LLEN members and stakeholders to review, digest and comment on areas relevant to their specific field[s].   A number of announcements have been made today that may [and will] compliment a number of initiatives currently being pursued by the Board of the Central Ranges LLEN and its partners. Included in these budget summaries is information from the following portfolios. MINISTER FOR EDUCATION & TRAINING MINISTER FOR EDUCATION SERVICES MINISTER FOR INFORMATION & COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY MINISTER FOR TRANSPORT MINISTER FOR AGRICULTURE MINISTER FOR HEALTH OFFICE OF THE TREASURER For the full details, please follow this link Posted by Bill Coppinger on 3 May 2005; 9:17:34 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

State Govt Launches A Fairer Victoria

The Victorian Government’s social policy action plan The Premier, the Hon Steve Bracks MP, and the Deputy Premier, the Hon John Thwaites MP, launched A Fairer Victoria today, 28 April 2005. A Fairer Victoria is the Victorian Government’s social policy action plan. According to the release today, the plan sets out 85 actions the Government will take within fourteen major strategies to address disadvantage in Victoria.  These actions will improve access to services, reduce barriers to opportunity, strengthen assistance for disadvantaged groups and places, and ensure that people get the help they need at critical times in their lives. The actions comprise new initiatives and reforms to the delivery of services.  There is significiant reference to the work of LLEN's. To download A Fairer Victoria follow this link [2.2Mb] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 28 April 2005; 6:06:16 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Anzac Day 2005

The Age newspaper reports that Thousands pack Melbourne Shrine       [Source: The Age]     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 25 April 2005; 2:25:47 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Growing Victoria Together Mk 11

The State Government has released the refreshed Growing Victoria Together (GVT) - the Government's vision for Victoria to 2010 and beyond. Growing Victoria Together looks at where Victoria is today and identifies some of the critical challenges ahead. Challenges ahead for the education and training system The education and training system needs continued improvement if we are to keep up with the rest of the world. Wide variations exist in the results achieved by students of different socio-economic backgrounds, and too many students are leaving school before completing their secondary education. To participate in the modern economy, more adult Victorians need to increase their skills through further education and training. More information can be found on the Growing Victoria Together website (www.growingvictoria.vic.gov.au)   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 13 April 2005; 11:35:21 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Youth Participation and Access Program

The Office for Youth has announced the Youth Participation and Access Program. The programme provides three year funding to community and local government organisations to provide generalist support and assistance for young people. The goal of the program is to build strong, active and resilient communities by assisting young people to have the opportunities, skills and recognition for contributing to a full range of social, learning and cultural activities. For further information go to the DVC Grants website.     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 15 March 2005; 9:37:31 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (2 responses)

Review of Education and Training Legislation

The Victorian Government has announced that it is conducting a Review of Education and Training Legislation. View the discussion paper on Review of Education and Training Legislation (PDF; 578 Kb) The objectives of the Review are to: Ensure the relevance of legislation to the contemporary education and training environment; Ensure that legislation supports the achievement of government policy objectives; and, Minimise legislative obstacles to innovative service delivery. Submissions can be made in writing to: Review of Legislation Strategic Initiatives Division Department of Education and Training GPO Box 4367 MELBOURNE VIC 3001 Submissions can also be made by e-mail to legrev@edumail.vic.gov.au The deadline for submissions is 5 pm 30 April, 2005. Individuals and organisations should indicate if they wish their submissions to be treated confidentially. For further information please contact Fiona Williams ph: 03 9637 3270 or Georgina McCann ph: 03 9637 2726 [Source: DE&T] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 16 February 2005; 10:02:40 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Girls - 2 - Government

Girls-2-Govt.  is  a  very special one-day event on Friday 11 March 2005 to celebrate International Women's Day. It provides a unique hands-on learning experience  for  young women aged 15 to 17.   The Office for Women's Policy (Department for Victorian Communities) are inviting applications from young women from all areas of Victoria, all backgrounds and abilities. Girls-2-Govt.is a fun and unique day where you will learn about how the Victorian Government works; meet and question senior women in government; hear about the day in the life of a Minister; learn about careers for women in the Government; and, celebrate International Women's Day at the same time. Applications are now open Young  women  from all areas of Victoria, all backgrounds and abilities are encouraged  to  apply  for  a  place. Applications are open until Friday 11 February.   There are 150 places available, which will be randomly selected from the applications received. Download an application form .[858Kb] You can get extra information from www.women.vic.gov.au or call Information Victoria on 1300 366 356 and ask for a form and information to be sent to you. Applications close on 11 February so don’t delay. Girls-2-Government is organised and run by the Office of Women’s Policy. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 4 February 2005; 9:38:09 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

CRLLEN back online

We are now back online. We apologise for any inconvenience this may have caused. Congratulations and thankyou to all the emergency services workers, volunteers and community members who have helped people recover from some the worst storms the district has had in many years. Over-night, we have had 77mm of rain and wind gusts exceeding 70Klm's an hour.   Driving through the district today it has been obvious that the damage has been extremely widespread, from Woodend to Kilmore, to Broadford, Seymour and Yea.     Local Flooding has meant the roads have remained dangerous for some time, with falling debris from trees and water over the road, still a problem. Bureau Warning: Issued at 9:10 pm EDT on Thursday 3 February 2005 CANCELLATION VICTORIAN SEVERE WEATHER WARNING for Widespread Damaging Winds and Very Heavy Rainfall For people in the North Central, Northern Country, Northeast and Alpine districts.   The low pressure system over central Victoria is continuing to weaken but will remain slow moving overnight and is not expected to move southwards in to Bass Strait until daylight hours Friday. Rain in the Northeast will persist tonight and showers are expected elsewhere across the state however rainfall rates are not expected to reach the flash flooding criteria. Northerly winds in the Alpine district are no longer expected to be damaging. No further warnings are expected to be issued for this event. Updated weather information can be gained by viewing the Bureau's website at http://www.bom.gov.au or by calling 1300 659 217.   Please take care in these conditions. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 3 February 2005; 9:31:14 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Wild weather hits Region

Due to severe weather overnight, the CRLLEN Office has lost power and email. We apologise for any inconvenience and hope to have services resumed as soon as possible Bureau of Meteorology forecasters have reported that Melbourne received close to 120mm of rain in the 24 hours to 6.30am AEDT - a record for a single day. VICTORIAN SEVERE WEATHER WARNING for Widespread Damaging Winds and Very Heavy Rainfall For people in the Western, Central, North Central, Wimmera, Mallee and Northern Country districts. Issued at 7:00 am EDT on Thursday 3 February 2005 A deep low pressure system currently east of Melbourne is expected to move slowly westwards and will remain near Melbourne this morning. The band of damaging winds will extend to parts of the Mallee district and to the Northern Country district over the next few hours. South to southwesterly winds are expected to average 60 to 70 km/hr in most areas but will locally average 70 to 80 km/hr at times with gusts to 100 km/hr.   The bureau of Meteorology Radar shows another heavy rain band moving across most of Victorian and the CRLLEN region as at 8:37am today. The S.E.S says some extreme weather is expected to continue for the next few hours. Victoria Police Superintendent Mick Williams urged people to think twice about heading into the city unless they had to be there. Click the radar image to see a live view from the Bureau.           Victorian Flood Warnings     Posted by Bill Coppinger on 3 February 2005; 8:51:35 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

National Youth Roundtable 2005 Application Process open!

The National Youth Roundtable brings together young people, aged 15 to 24 years, to discuss issues that have an impact on youth. The National Youth Roundtable is managed by the Australian Government Department of Family and Community Services (FaCS). Roundtable members include young people from all States and Territories, metropolitan and regional areas and from various cultural backgrounds. Download Application Form Alternatively you can contact the organisers on roundtable@thesource.gov.au or by calling the toll free number on 1800 624 309. Applications close 5:00pm 11 March 2005 Posted by Bill Coppinger on 20 January 2005; 8:43:02 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

LLEN Network discusses 'Community' VCAL models

Over 70 representatives from communities across Victoria met yesterday in Melbourne to consider the burgeoning use of a 'community-based VCAL' model to support the re-engagement of young people in to education and training. The community based VCAL teams from both the Mitchell and Macedon Shires were represented at the meeting. The Community or “out of school” VCAL Forum was introduced by South East LLEN CEO, Paul DiMasi and chaired by Mick Murphy,CEO of Baw Baw Latrobe LLEN The Central Ranges LLEN was represented on a panel of 5 that outlined a variety of programs running across the state, with an emphasis on their administration and development. All in attendance reported the seminar to be a very constructive and valuable gathering of ideas and expertise, all of whcih will greatly assist in supporting young people re-connect with education and training. As more formal reposnse from the day become available, they will be posted in the discussion forum of this web site. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 30 November 2004; 11:59:09 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

The VQA Matrix meets DCO, TSL, CRLLEN et al.....

Not at all daunted by the sea of acronyms that greeted him on his arrival, Dr. Dennis Gunning, Director of the Victorian Qualifications Authority [VQA] met with representatives of Transfield Services, [TSL] The Defence Community Organisation [DCO], Puckapunyal Neighborhood Centre [PuckaOnline] and the Central Ranges LLEN today at a meeting held in the DCO, within the Puckapunyal Military Area, Puckapunyal. The meeting was designed to inform industry and community partners about the progress of the 'Credit Matrix' initiative and to look at specific opportunities that the proposed 'matrix' might provide for the unique needs of the defence community and the communities in which both the CRLLEN and Transfield Services operates. The future possibilities that such a 'qualifications currency' would bring to organisations such as the DCO, communities such as those in the Seymour - Puckapunyal area, or for an employer that operates across Australia and internationally, such as Transfield Services, meant that discussion was very lively, constructive and enthusiastically in support of the possibilities. The group agreed that further dialogue was high on the agenda and all committed to pursue with interest the next stages of the development of the 'Credit Matrix'. Related Links Download a copy of The Credit Matrix: Towards Implementation [389KB] Dr. Gunning's Presentation - Credit Matrix: Building Bridges Between Qualifications [92k] Prime Minister's Community-Business Partnership Award Posted by Bill Coppinger on 28 October 2004; 6:24:32 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (3 responses)

PM announces fourth Cabinet

Prime Minister John Howard has unveiled his new frontbench line-up, with three new ministries In an announcement that will interest all LLEN members, Gary Hardgrave has responsibility for the Government's new portfolio of Vocational and Technical Education and Queensland's Peter Dutton has been promoted into the ministry as the Workforce Participation Minister. Accroding to ABC news services, Mr Howard says they will be charged with getting more people into the workforce. We still have too high level of non-particpation by certain age cohorts, Mr Howard said. They're very high by OECD standards. There will also be the creation of a new Department of Human Services which will bring together six agencies that in total administer $80 billion of human services each year: Centrelink, Health Insurance Commission, Child Support Agency, Health Services Australia, Commonwealth Rehabilitation Services and Australian Hearing. Member for McEwen, The Honourable Fran Bailey, has moved from the Ministry of Employment Services to the new portfolio of Minister for Small Business and Tourism. Related Links PM's Press Release - Fourth Ministry Download the Ministry List Details on Education and Training Ministers Posted by Bill Coppinger on 22 October 2004; 5:23:06 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

'COINs' Workshop Kicks Off Planning

Almost 30 representatives from organisations across the Shires of Macedon Ranges, Mitchell and Murrindindi met at the Seymour Campus of The Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE to discuss planning for the proposed 'COINs' initiative. Local Hospitals, Schools, Tafe's, Community Houses, Adult and Further Education providers, Local Government, Youth Agencies, and community groups were represented.   For more information, follow this Link above Posted by Bill Coppinger on 29 September 2004; 7:22:45 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (3 responses)

C.O.I.N.'s -Communities of Integrated Networks

Ten high schools, two small TAFE’s, three hospitals, a dozen community centres, libraries and other local government and community facilities serve a population of some 80,000 people across 6,000sq Kilometres. The opportunity to develop a strategic link with these sectors and truly reform service delivery is possible.                 [Source: CRLLEN Satellite image of 3 Shires] A meeting of key stakeholders is being held on: Date: Wednesday, 29 September 2004 Time: 10.00am – 2.00pm Location: Goulburn Ovens TAFE, Wallis Street Seymour The goal of the community of integrated networks [C.O.I.N.'s] initiative is to focus on supporting the long-term provision of education and training, health and community services to our relatively small and diverse communities. A collaborative approach to key broadband telecommunications infrastructure provision will assist in broadening and deepening the range of programmes and services available. To find out more or RSVP to attend the day, please follow this link   Posted by Bill Coppinger on 22 September 2004; 12:50:22 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (6 responses)

PM to Call Oct 9 Election

PM to Call Oct. 9 Election - Media. CANBERRA (Reuters) - Prime Minister John Howard is about to call an Oct. 9 election to seek a fourth consecutive term in office. [Source: Reuters] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 29 August 2004; 11:44:37 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Credit Matrix moves toward implementation

The Victorian Qualifications Authority (VQA) has now developed a detailed model for the credit matrix – a credit-based framework designed to apply across all the post-compulsory qualifications currently available in Victoria.  A publication, The Credit Matrix – Towards Implementation, will be sent out to LLENs, education providers and key bodies and associations, and made available on the VQA website, www.vqa.vic.gov.au.  It outlines the model and the work planned over the next phase to test and refine it.  It also outlines the work planned ahead for implementation, part of which includes a round of consultation towards the end of 2004. The VQA is keen to ensure that the credit matrix project continues to be as fully informed as possible by the views and advice of all its stakeholders.  Comments or questions are welcome at any time, either through the Your Views section of the VQA website, email (vqa@vqa.vic.gov.au), telephone (03 9637 2806) or fax (03 9637 2422). [Source: MEMO - Felicity Dunn, Victorian Qualifications Authority] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 5 August 2004; 4:46:02 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

Disability Standards Draft Released

The final draft of the Federal Government's Disability Standards for Education has now been released. The Standards, which are set to remove discrimination against students with a disability, will cover government and non-government providers in all sectors - pre-school, school, vocational education and training, higher education and adult and community education. The Standards and the accompanying Guidance Notes and Regulation Impact Statement are now available on the DEST website. [Source: Dept Education, Science and Training] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 16 June 2004; 3:35:52 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

'Our Communities' Conference kicks off to sell out crowd!

This year's conference convened by 'Our Community.com.au' is being held at Moonee Valley Racecource on Monday 7th and Tuesday 8th June, 2004. It is investigating the themes of: Recognising why values really do matter Identifying the indicators to building greater community groups and better communities Advocating the need for more courageous and pioneering leadership, not just managerial leadership Ensuring the valuing of community groups as important social assets Encouraging communities to partner with Government and business without losing control Posted by Bill Coppinger on 7 June 2004; 3:44:13 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss (1 response)

Higher Education 'Towards Globalization' - A Virtual Debate

As part of the International Finance Corporation≠s (IFC) International Investment Forum on Private Higher Education, this debate featured comments both in favor of and against the globalization of private education. John Dawkins, former Minster of Education Minster of Finance, Australia, described the experience in his country doubling the size of its public higher education system from the late 1980s to late 1990s. Terry Ryan, Director, African Centre for Economic Growth (ACEG), noted that many developing countries are unable to fully employ the numbers of college graduates produced within their borders. He stated that if graduates, with international accreditation, are then allowed to move within the international job market, tax money is being used to transfer skilled labor. To listen to the debate follow this link Posted by Bill Coppinger on 16 April 2004; 9:13:26 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

The National Skills Shortages Strategy

On April 6th 2004, The Hon. Brendan Nelson, Federal Minister for Education, Science and Training launched a National Skills Shortages Strategy to address skills shortages in critical industries throughout Australia and also a ‘one-stop shop’ web based site for students, parents and industry on skill shortage careers: http://www.getatrade.gov.au The new Strategy will take an industry approach to skill needs and tackle many of the significant disincentives which can turn young people away from choosing trades as a career. [Source: DEST Media Centre] Posted by Bill Coppinger on 7 April 2004; 7:53:01 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

First Message for the Central Ranges LLEN

This is a short welcome to the very first posting to the Central Ranges LLEN Community Publishing Web Site. Over the coming months we hope to develop a site that will be used by many hundreds across the Macedon, Mitchell and Murrindindi Shires. Posted by Bill Coppinger on 9 February 2004; 2:37:07 PM from the The CEO dept. Discuss

First Light of the New Server

This is a short message to note the establish of the Central Ranges LLEN community publishing server. This is the first time the site has been live!! Posted by Bill Coppinger on 29 January 2004; 10:43:17 AM from the The CEO dept. Discuss