In partnering with Chisholm, the LLEN has provided some extra funding to support the Chisholm VCAL program in Wonthaggi so that students can attend the Voyage Fitness gym as part of their extended learning.
Students attend the gym 2 days per week and were pretty shy at first, but by being able to break down those barriers to exercise, they have come a long way in a short time. They are setting their own goals, working together like a team and getting healthy at the same time.
Paige Holness, Voyage Fitness Wonthaggi Club Manager: “The student’s started 4 weeks ago and it’s amazing to see how they have grown. When they first came they used to sit in the corner and not really do anything but they have been through the biggest change, their self-confidence has really grown and they are all just really loving it. They know how to use all the machines now and hardly need my help at all. One of the girls has told me how her dad is so proud of her for the amazing effort she has put in”.
The experience for some of these students has been life changing; it’s amazing to see the rapid development and positive change in these young people when put into a different learning environment. Engaging with and being a part of the community in a positive way has definitely impacted their success.
Isaac: “It’s great to finally be treated like an adult and not pushed around like a kid”
Josh: “I guess one of the things about the Chisholm VCAL is that it kind of got me off the street. Before I came here I only had one group of friends and coming to VCAL gave me that place to look for that opportunity to move [forward] and better myself. I don’t think I would have been able to have done it without the support of the teachers and all the people helping and I’m thankful for it.”
Grace: “The best thing about this is that I used to be a lazy slob and now I’m really fit”
This opportunity has really given these students a new lease on life and an optimistic outlook on their futures. It’s also great initiative in the lead up to Education Week 2017, with this year’s theme being “Healthy Mind, Healthy Body”.
Kylie Van Steensel, VCAL Coordinator Chisholm Wonthaggi: “The exercise is really helping the students build their confidence and personal development. They feel like they are a part of something, achieving goals, pushing themselves and doing something positive in the community. I’ve even had a grandfather ring me up to ask what we had done with his granddaughter because she is a completely different person now. The student’s wouldn’t have this opportunity if it wasn’t for the LLEN funding that made it possible.”
Congratulations to Chisholm for developing and facilitating this program and all the commitment from Kylie, teaching staff and Voyage Fitness staff in supporting these young people.
