School’s height of learning

Pakenham’s first independent Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning College has welcomed its first group of students for the year.
ECG College, which offers an alternative for sudents to complete senior secondary studies, opened its doors to students from 15 to 20 years of age in Pakenham this month.
Students come to the school for a variety of reasons, such as because of illness, family reasons or because they simply find it difficult to learn in a mainstream school environment.
ECG College head of school Paul Banks said the students had settled well into the campus, located in the building formerly occupied by Oz Child on Princes Highway.
“The students have taken a trip to the Summit in Trafalgar where they were invited to tackle some challenging outdoor activities involving climbing and heights,” he said.
“The activities encouraged students to trust, understand fear and experience the rewards associated with letting go.
“They have also travelled from Pakenham to Warragul to build their practical skills and knowledge in planning and using public transport and getting around.”
Paul Banks said the students were planning a number of projects to extend their knowledge and skills including designing and establishing a herb and vegetable garden and constructing outdoor furniture.
Students also gain valuable work placement experience to build their confidence and job readiness.