The Allan Labor Government is providing more support Victoria's African communities through the ground-breaking Homework Clubs which have helped increase school participation and completion rates.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Education Ben Carroll today announced the 18 community organisations selected to deliver the successful Homework Clubs program over the next three years, sharing in a total of $5.1 million in funding.
Homework Clubs aim to support improved engagement of students and their families with education, schools and communities.
The program is delivered as part of the Victorian African Communities Action Plan, which is empowering African communities across the state to have a strong sense of belonging, connection, and inclusion in Victoria.
The initiative provides funding to community organisations in partnership with school communities to deliver extra tuition for young people of African heritage who require additional support.
Homework Clubs provide a culturally responsive and safe space where parents and carers can also attend information sessions to build their knowledge of the Victorian education system and strengthen their relationship with school administration.
The Homework Clubs program has enrolled more than 1,350 students, with feedback indicating that students feel more confident and positive about school, and parents are more engaged in their children's education.
For more information on the Victorian African Communities Action Plan and Homework Clubs visit vic.gov.au/empowering-african-communities-victoria
As stated by Minister for Education Ben Carroll
"Our ground-breaking Homework Clubs not only support young people's education but work toward building a welcoming and more inclusive Victoria for all."
"The evidence shows that these clubs are helping students and families engage with school and succeed, which is setting students up with the skills they need to thrive."
As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt
"Providing young people with spaces to feel engaged and supported in our diverse communities helps build pride of identity - with the extra support from our Homework Clubs giving African Victorian students and families confidence to thrive in education."
"Every member of our community deserves to feel supported, and I'm thrilled to see the positive impact our Homework Clubs has had across our state."
Grant Recipients include:
Afri-Aus Care
African Youth Alliance
ASPYA Young Africans
Australian Burundian Community in Victoria
Ballarat Regional Multicultural Community
Community Abundance
Dandenong Community and Learning Centre
Djerriwarrah Community and Education Services
Drummond Street Services
Himilo Community Connect
Islamic Society of Victoria
Kensington Neighbourhood House
Networking African Australian
Regional Victorians of Colour
Somali Community Inc
Stand out Youth Empowerment
Western Bulldogs Community Foundation
