CELEBRATIONS were in order yesterday for Independent Learning Centre students as they were recognised for their achievements throughout the year at a graduation ceremony at Mount Gambier City Hall.
A range of awards were presented to the committed students who have shown their dedication and commitment to study and their future careers.
Stage 1 completion certificates, VET certificates, re-engage awards, SACE completion certificates and a range of special awards were handed out as family and friends cheered from the crowd.
Centre manager David Burt was full of pride as he congratulated the students on their achievements.
“It has been a very big year at the ILC, student enrollments are probably lower than last year, but achievements have outstripped what might have traditionally been achieved by young people,” he said.
“They have been involved with an enormous number of broader, interesting programs throughout the community, including working through suicide prevention training and undertaking volunteering at the Riddoch Art Gallery each week.
“Students also had terrific success at the Mount Gambier Show with entries in photography and textiles and have excelled in our new physics course.”
Former student Sarah Harden – who graduated in 2015 – made a speech to the graduating students, encouraging them to continue striving for the best.
Since graduating, Ms Harden has been heavily involved with the community through the Mount Gambier City Youth Advisory Group and Headspace.
“I can honestly say without the ILC, I would not have completed my SACE and wouldn’t have been able to get to where I want to be in life,” she said.
“Attending the ILC gave me practical support to continue my education and keep pushing forward and my time there was full of positive experiences.
“I am very grateful for the ILC for giving me this chance to learn and explore and help me towards a successful career.”
