VET Community Service Update

Sea of hearts – Reconciliation Week

The "Sea of Hearts" typically refers to an Australian national movement and community art initiative during National Reconciliation Week. It involves individuals, schools, and workplaces creating large, symbolic displays of decorated paper hearts to represent unity, respect, and a shared commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander reconciliation.

“Over the past few weeks, the Community Services class at McClelland College has worked closely with Ngawak Early Learning Centre to deepen our understanding of Indigenous culture and the importance of reconciliation.

As part of this learning experience, we collaborated with Ballam Park Primary School, Ballam Park Preschool, and Ngawak Early Learning Centre to create a “Sea of Hearts” display. Using our creativity, we designed and decorated hearts that symbolise unity, respect, and connection within our community.

The completed hearts were displayed in the sandpit, creating a meaningful visual representation of our collective commitment to reconciliation. To celebrate the project, participants gathered for afternoon tea with everyone who contributed a heart.

During the event, Alyiah Edwards and Alex Canepa delivered a short speech reflecting on the significance of National Reconciliation Week and highlighting the importance of fostering understanding, respect, and positive relationships between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and the wider community”. 

By Alyiah Edwards VCE VM and VET Community Service student.

First Aid 

VET Community Services Students Gain Lifesaving Skills. Our VET Certificate II in Community Services students recently completed their Level 2 First Aid and CPR training, equipping them with valuable skills that could one day help save a life.

Throughout the day, students learned how to respond confidently in emergency situations, including treating a range of injuries and illnesses, as well as performing CPR using the latest first aid guidelines. The practical sessions kept everyone engaged as students worked through realistic scenarios and practised CPR to the beat of the latest tunes! 

Successfully completing this nationally recognised qualification is not only a fantastic personal achievement but also a valuable addition to each student's résumé. Whether pursuing further study, employment, volunteering, or simply being prepared to help family, friends, or members of the community, these skills will benefit them well into the future. Congratulations to all of our students who completed this course.