Mums making their own way

CRANBOURNE’S young mums are making their way in the world of education.
A group of eight young mums recently celebrated the conclusion of a highly successful vocational education program when they graduated from Chisholm Institute’s Rosebud and Cranbourne campuses.
Graduates completed a range of courses including certificate one in vocational preparation, food handling and level one first aid, with the program focusing on topics such as building relationships, self-esteem, drug and alcohol, harm minimisation and family planning along with future employment and education pathways.
The course targets young mothers aged 16 to 24 who live in the Mornington Peninsula and Cranbourne areas.
Rosebud campus manager Antony Trivett, who developed the program, said the course was the only one of its kind run by Chisholm and one of the very few courses aimed specifically at young mothers.
“We actually wanted to design a course that would be attractive to you all,” he said at the graduation ceremony.
“As a result we’ve seen a tremendous amount of change and personal development.”
With many of the young mothers having mapped out either an education pathway or employment opportunity for 2007, teacher Michelle Lomman of Cranbourne was glowing in her praise of their efforts.
“I got to meet some fabulous young women and saw what they are truly capable of,” she said.
“It’s been an absolute pleasure being on that journey with them.”
Cranbourne mother Tina Sheen, a participant in the program, said everything she got out of the program was invaluable.
“I know where I’m going now, whereas before I didn’t believe in myself. Now I do believe in myself,” she said.
For enrolment information on one of Chisholm Institute’s 220 course options call the Chisholm course information centre on 1800 MY TAFE or go to www.chisholm.vic.edu.au.