EXECUTIVE MANAGER’ S REPORT
objectives. We are committed to deliver quality education through the implementation of courses that value active learning. Integrity in the work place allows us to operate in a friendly and professional environment despite challenges. A culture of respect, good will and collaboration continues to develop.
I would like to acknowledge the Traditional owners of this land, past and present that includes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, particularly the Wurundjeri people as the first owners of this country where we live and work.
I would like to put on record the magnificent efforts of the staff at FLN during the last year. The commitment, drive, and energy of our staff have been instrumental in creating a positive work culture that has resulted in FLN growth, created confidence among local supporters, and developed better relationships with statutory and philanthropic bodies.
This year we were audited for the re-registration of our RTO status. We obtained a five year registration which is the maximum granted for those who comply with the requirements. Furthermore, subsequent audits by statutory bodies have been positive and minor changes for improvement can only make FLN better. Once more, thanks to our team efforts and commitment.
Our student intake continues to experience a steady growth. This is an indication of the ongoing need to integrate and train people who experience diverse forms of disadvantage. Also it is an indication that despite ongoing gentrification of Fitzroy and surrounding suburban areas, there are people who are struggling and in need of services and education. I would like to thank all our students and local residents who trust our services and continue to access our programs. We have many referrals through them. There is nothing more gratifying than the positive‘ word of mouth’ leading new people to seek our services.
This year we have identified additional courses that improve opportunities for our students. More is needed however to ensure student retention and we will continue to investigate ideas and possibilities that will enhance the learning opportunities for our students.
FLN is not an average RTO or community centre. Subscribing to the Local Learn communities, having an RTO Status that is fundamentally a Not-for-Profit allows us to develop a stronger ethical and human rights framework that fundamentally informs FLN’ s vision, values and
The building we are in has a very interesting history. My best way to define it is as a community women’ s space. My findings going through library archives, talking with local residents and reviewing searches by Acacia Childcare Centre show that the building at 3 Wood Street was constructed by Cathryn Ferguson who had a funeral director business. During the II WW, in response to the homelessness of many local children, Ms Ferguson in collaboration with other local women raised funds for the construction of 198 Napier St, land already owned by Ms Ferguson. Twenty five children were housed in these facilities. A cook and two staff members took care of the premises and services. Some time after the War the entire site was purchased by the Catholic Archdiocese of Melbourne and a kindergarten was established.
The history of the building, particularly the purpose- referring to 198 Napier- correlates with our current purpose to provide education and support local residents who experience diverse forms of disadvantage. Currently the Wood Street building is a multipurpose facility where activities are carried out from early morning till night. We also maximise the space at 198 Napier St and recently agreed with the City of Yarra to use a room located in the library basement. We continue to utilise a large room at the Atherton Gardens and this year I do expect additional space can be obtained around our local neighbourhood.
Changes at FLN include re branding of the Computer Club House. The new name is The Clubhouse: Where Technology Meets Imagination. The Clubhouse umbrella organisation also changed its name to The Clubhouse Network: A Global Community for Creativity & Achievement. Our Clubhouse continues to operate five days per week and the acquisition of a 3D printer and other equipment will enhance this important program for youth.
Currently our Volunteer Clubhouse Mentors have been wonderful learning and sharing with our members. A stronger sense of fostering creativity, developing positive relationships, learning from each other in a friendly space will continue to strengthen our Clubhouse young members. We are also delighted to be the recipients of ACFE innovation grants that will make a positive contribution that will include re-engagement of teenagers who are experiencing challenges in participating as students and / or finding employment.
I would like to thank all our supporters that include local and state statutory bodies, philanthropic trusts, clubs, small businesses our wonderful team of volunteers and all stakeholders for being present and partake in the education and social development of our local communities.
G. Rosales Martinez
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