The Mid North Coast Community College today opened its new education precinct in Port Macquarie, bringing to an end four years’ of hard work.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan attended the precinct opening and said it was great all of the college’s education and outreach services could now be provided under the one roof at 4-5 Albert Circuit.

“This new precinct has been a dream for the community college for more than one decade,” he said.

“The Mid North Coast Community College provides important education and outreach services to our older residents, long-term jobseekers and youth who aren’t participating in the traditional school system.

“It ensures no one who wants an education or wants a pathway to employment misses out on services and I’m really proud this centre receives more than half its funding from our Commonwealth Government.”

The Mid North Coast Community College provides specialist programs, such as youth and language, literacy and numeracy programs. It also provides programs for people with disabilities and mental health challenges.

Community College Chief Executive Officer Valerieanne Byrnes said it was no accident the new education precinct was opened during National Inclusion Week.

“Social Inclusion Week aims to help all Australians feel included and valued, giving everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society,” she said.

“For nearly 40 years, our college has offered the ability to Connect, Collaborate and celebrate their achievements. We aim to lead community development through socially inclusive learning programs and opportunities that enable enriched and enterprising lives.

“Now our strategic plan has been brought to life through the development of a dedicated Community Education precinct in Port Macquarie and one we plan to replicate in other areas across the Mid North Coast.

“Albert Circuit is our new home offering children’s play, OOSHC vacation care, a community shed, a Special Assistance School and Youth Program along with Adult education courses, our wonder School Of Hard Knocks and opportunities to meet new friends while learning new skills.

“Our Education precinct is built on the philosophy of community education – lifelong learning for all and is powered primarily by Federal and State Government funding and the unbelievable commitment of a small team of volunteers and sponsors.”

Ms Byrnes said next year she is hoping the college will expand its services to residents requiring assistance to build a new career through the Federal Government’s Foundation Skills Your Future Program.

Mid North Coast Community College is one of 13 education institutions in New South Wales to be offered a panel position to Foundation Skills Your Future, the Australian Government’s Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital literacy skills program. Through this program, $62.4 million will be provided over four years, to 30 June 2023, to support eligible Australians to develop skills to support them to undertake further education and training, remain in employment or change jobs. For more information visit the Department of Education, Skills and Employment website.