Training and development for staff is an obvious responsibility for Councils. However, Maroochy Shire has taken the concept a step further by instituting a free communication skills program for its residents. Held in the Shire’s Nambour Library, this is a joint initiative with the Cooloola Sunshine Institute of TAFE.
The program employs volunteer tutors to assist participants to improve reading and writing skills for a range of needs. This could include letter writing, homework, resume writing, tallying numbers or writing job applications.
Mayor Don Culley said that, according to a number of social agencies in Australia, there are many people in the Australian community who lack the necessary skills to enable them to fully realise their potential and part in the community.
“We have all heard stories about people at work who do not have enough literacy skills to fill in their paysheets, or about students who leave school after ten or twelve years who do not have enough literacy, language and numeracy skills to apply for and get a job,” he said.
“Overcoming the obstacles to reading and written language can be instrumental to a better way of life, a desired job or promotion.”
He said the TAFE volunteers are highly trained and experienced with an understanding of adult learning needs.
For further information contact Mayor Don Culley, telephone (07) 5441 8656.
