Macquarie Community College has been named the NSW winner in the 2017 Adult Learners’ Week Awards, a worldwide movement that incorporates International Literacy Day on September 8. The award was judged on Open Day festivities in Carlingford and recognises the college’s contribution in addressing the gap between those who have access to education and those who do not.
“The 2017 Adult Learners’ Week was the most successful yet, with over 500 events registered on the ALW website. It was very difficult to choose the best event,” said Gina Perry from Adult Education Australia.
The criteria for the 2017 award included who best explored the theme ‘Take the leap, discover learning’, partnered with other organisations in the ALW celebrations, and made good use of social media in promoting the event before, during and afterwards.
Macquarie Community College Open Day featured live trainer sessions and demonstrations, and celebrated the achievements of adults whose lives had been transformed by learning. The day provided community members with a valuable insight into the benefits of learning and highlighted the variety of English, vocational, leisure and lifestyle courses available at the college. Other NSW training centres and institutions vying for the honour included libraries, Neighbourhood Houses, community centres, local councils, learning centres and community colleges.
“What I loved most about Open Day was seeing our trainers in action. They volunteered their time because they really believe in what we’re doing and wanted to show the local community all of the learning options right on their doorstep,” said CEO Theresa Collignon.
Other 2017 Australian winners include Carlton Neighbourhood Learning Centre (Vic), Coromandel Community Centre Inc. (SA), Town of Victoria Park Library (WA), Alice Springs Public Library (NT), and City of Devonport Brass (Tas).
Visit the Macquarie Community College website to view all our courses and find out why we are an award winning college.