CELEBRATIONS were in order this week for Independent Learning Centre students as they were recognised for their achievements at a graduation ceremony at Mount Gambier City Hall.
The centre recognised the achievements of 25 students at the annual ceremony and a range of awards were presented to the committed students.
Independent Learning Centre manager David Burt said the event recognised young people’s achievements and how they had committed to a chapter of their lives.
“It also offers them some acknowledgement that we would like them to go a little bit further,” he said.
“We would love to see them go and obtain employment, become a positive community member or to undergo further study.”
Mr Burt praised graduates for their commitment to study and future careers and said it was rewarding to watch the young people develop.
“We try and harness their abilities and maximise them,” he said.
“The key is to engage with the things they enjoy doing and accredit them.”
Mr Burt said the award graduation was not something the students necessarily looked forward to.
“Our students are not known for their public performance,” he said.
“I think, however, secretly they are pretty proud of their achievements.”
2019 SACE graduate Braedon Lipscombe said he felt accomplished and happy and thanked centre staff and his case manager for their support during his journey.
“Everyone has said how proud they are of me and I am just excited to finally have it done,” Mr Lipscombe said.
“The Independent Learning Centre made the journey relatively easy.
“It was enjoyable coming to school and get the learning out of the way.”
Mr Lipscombe attended school in Year 12 but did not complete his SACE, but believed it was important for young people to finish their schooling.
He said he would look for full-time employment, but was unsure as to what career he wanted to pursue.
“I do love cooking so maybe something down that track.”
