VPC News
Students in the VPC and Year 10 Pathways demonstrated the spirit of hard work and commitment in ensuring the Reconciliation Week event held at the Hazelwood Estate Community Projects and Life Skills was a success. This event was held on the 3rd of June 2026 marking Reconciliation Week and showcasing the amazing work our students produce every Wednesday at the Hazelwood Estate. A couple of our students took visitors from the Churchill Campus and other external agencies on a tour of the estate. We are very proud of their effort and confidence in representing Kurnai College University Campus and the VPC team. These are some highlights of the reconciliation week event:
Some of our students from the VPC and Year 10 Pathways have found work experience with businesses within the Latrobe Valley community. Our students and with support from our VPC and careers staff contacted employers of these businesses in giving these students the opportunity to experience work life. This work experience aligns with the VPC Work Related Skills component of the VPC curriculum design.
Students from the VPC and Year 10 Pathways have been working on their various learning tasks in the classroom. These learning tasks are based on the principles of applied learning. Students use the learning cycle of doing, experiencing, reflecting and relating new knowledge and skills to the real world to apply what they have learnt in the classroom. This experiential cycle will be reflected in their work experiences with businesses in the community and in their daily lives.
The dedication and commitment of the VPC staff cannot be taken for granted as they have put each student at the centre within a strength-based model rather than a deficit model. This implies a focus on students` strengths and interests, instead of focusing on their weaknesses and negative attitudes. Thank you to the VPC team for your ongoing support for all our students.
Community Garden Project
At the beginning of Term 2, Kurnai College VPC Year 11 and Year 12 students commenced their Community Garden Program as part of their Work-Related Skills studies. The program aims to develop students’ employability skills and provide valuable hands-on learning experiences through community engagement and volunteering opportunities organised by their Work Related Skills teachers Mrs. Amala Ramasamy and Mr. Ben Kimpton
Throughout the term, students have participated in a variety of activities at the Churchill Neighbourhood Centre. These have included recycling bottles and containers, assisting with community projects, and contributing to the planning of the upcoming RoadBoss Rally charity event. As part of this project, students researched vehicle modifications and equipment required for long-distance outback travel, helping to support the event’s fundraising efforts for charity.
Students also played an active role in preparing for the Community Hub’s Biggest Morning Tea, held on 22 May 2026. Working alongside volunteers, they assisted with event preparation and gained valuable experience in teamwork, organisation, and community service.
A highlight of the program has been the opportunity for students to take on different responsibilities each Friday. Through their volunteering experiences, students have been developing essential workplace skills, including teamwork, communication, self-management, problem-solving, active listening, decision-making, initiative, adaptability, and time management.
Looking ahead, students will continue to participate in a range of Work Related Skills activities throughout the year. During Semester 2, they will plan, develop, and deliver their own community-based project, further strengthening their confidence, independence, and workplace readiness.
We are proud of the positive contribution our students have made to the Churchill Neighbourhood Centre and look forward to seeing their continued growth and success. Attached are some wonderful photos showcasing our students actively engaged in their Friday volunteering activities.
More photos from the students at the Hazelwood Estate School:
Kenneth Igba
VPC Team Leader