A community empowered through Literacy and Numeracy

21 Aug 2025

The Literacy and Numeracy program at Myrtleford Neighbourhood Centre has been transforming lives

The Literacy and Numeracy program at Myrtleford Neighbourhood Centre began before the COVID-19 pandemic, with the aim of helping community members build their English and foundational skills. While the program was disrupted during the pandemic, it has since resumed and expanded, with many inspiring outcomes.

Manager Jill Graham says the program has been life-changing for many participants. “We’ve seen people arrive with little confidence, and through persistence and support, they’ve been able to transform their lives,” she explained. “It’s about much more than learning – it’s about empowerment and independence.”

One of the program’s early students first came to the Centre during its “Make Masks” days, before masks were mandatory. She expressed a desire to improve her English, and while making progress, also revealed that she was experiencing financial abuse at home. With support from the Centre and a referral to the North East Multicultural Association, she connected with legal advice and began to rebuild her life. Over time, she secured permanent work, her own home, and even had the chance to return to Malaysia to visit her ill father.

“Her journey is a powerful example of resilience,” Jill reflected. “To see her go from feeling powerless to standing on her own two feet has been remarkable.”

Another student, 18-year-old Francoise (“Frank”), came from France with the goal of studying law. Determined to improve his English, he worked at a local timber mill while attending classes at the Centre. Within six months he sat for a university entrance exam, eventually gaining acceptance into a Law program. “Frank was so motivated,” Jill said. “Even when he struggled, he pushed through. Now he’s thriving at university and still keeps in touch with us.”

The Centre has also worked closely with Indigenous students seeking digital skills, quickly recognising the need for literacy and numeracy support alongside computer training. Several participants have since moved into local employment, returned to secondary school, or gone on to university. “This work has taught us so much about how to respond to the needs of Indigenous learners,” Jill noted. “It’s been a learning journey for us as much as for the students.”

More recently, the program has grown to include members of the Burmese community, with a current class of 11 students at different stages of their English learning. Many had little or no schooling prior to attending. Jill credits their success to the dedication of trainer Judy, a retired secondary teacher with global experience. “Judy brings such creativity, patience, and care to her teaching,” she said. “She’s an absolute treasure, and the students adore her.”

“These stories remind us why programs like this are so important,” Jill concluded. “They’re about giving people the tools to participate fully in life, to build confidence, and to feel part of the community.”