Mt Druitt Learning Ground

A unique place designed for adults and their families to experience capacity building in community education and development and to make learning experiences together.
Built on the principles of each-one-teach-one, (I have a skill to offer you just as you have to offer me) and learning with great respect.
Everyone feels safe and welcome and we offer ‘Learning Ground' program at 10-12 Macarthur Way, Bidwill. Learning Ground operates on school term timetable.
Operating flexible hours participants are drawn from varying ages and backgrounds. Working together we will find new solutions to breaking the poverty cycle in the Druitt. Skills development are paramount for adults and children to meet achievable goals.
Learning is based on Aboriginal traditional and contemporary knowledge and that of linguistically diverse communities. (CALD), realization and celebration will characterise much of the learning.
Participants will learn the 3 R's:
Reading: writing, artwork, story-telling
Rhythm: music, dance, drama
Respect I am one & you are one, we care (taught with simple meditation techniques)

First semester learning experiences address the "five me's"; learning focus is on our physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual and social growth. All participants address the same themes using age appropriate tools and skills training. Some shared learning time allows each age group to perceive a little of the learning world of the other.
Second semester develops the understanding of the "whole me", with focus on becoming a good listener, developing skills to communicate clearly and well with family, friends, teachers, students, and others. Priority is given to positive communication skills learning how to be assertive without aggression, and taking the role of an enabler regardless of age.

Offers workshops, seminars and forums drawn out of expressed community needs eg parenting (a variety of topics), enabling a developing community, volunteering in a developing community, health and safety, preparing for employment, choosing between violence and non-violence, parenting skills and many others.

Designed for Mt Druitt families who are committed to experiencing capacity building techniques such that will equip them for later mainstream education or potential job opportunities.

The Learning Ground differs from school, or neighbourhood or community centre in that every adult participant will be allocated a ‘mentor' support person and any child participant will require a dedicated support person over the age of 18.
Support persons may be a relative or a family friend who can provide ongoing support.
Support persons are welcome with formal or informal learning skills but willingness and the ability to undertake some training is essential.

Socio-economic disadvantage and marginalisation is addressed.
Cross cultural understanding is promoted.
Family relationships are strengthened.
Literacy and numeracy is prioritised.
Community wellbeing is enhanced.
Developing self-esteem will lead to employment options.
Learning Ground will ultimately contribute to the reduction of violence, crime, substance abuse, and homelessness in the area.
Learning Ground, first in Mt Druitt will be able to be replicated in other communities.