Media Release: Mission Australia launches new education program for young mums

A new program that breaks the barriers preventing young mums from completing a mainstream education is now accepting enrolments in the Greater Dandenong region.

The Aim’n High program, a joint collaboration between Mission Australia, Hallam Senior Secondary College and South East Local Learning and Employment Network, will give young mothers aged 16 to 19 access to high quality childcare in a supportive learning environment.

Aim'n High also provides intensive case management and parenting education, with plans to include visits from the Maternal and Child Health Service to ensure the mums get all the support they need to meet the demands of parenthood and study.

Mission Australia Manager of Child and Family Services Melinda Chapman said many young mothers needed help in completing their education.

"We saw Mission Australia's Early Learning Services as an opportunity to combine our services and offer childcare while assisting those mums with their studies," she said.

Up to 20 students in the program will study VCE level English and Human Development, taught by teachers from Hallam Secondary College, in a four-day week. Homework can be completed in the afternoon, helping to confine workload within school hours.

"It's challenging to be a first-time mum, regardless of facing the demands of study as well. This Program will make a significant difference to young mothers' education outcomes and to address issues such as disadvantage and disengagement," Melinda said.

"We hope to see our students eventually return to mainstream study at a school or go on to TAFE or vocational training."

National Director of Mission Australia Early Learning Services Marie Howard said: "We are very excited to offer this unique service to young mums. It's extra support and easy access to education and quality childcare, in a comfortable and safe environment."

The Program will run at Mission Australia's Early Learning Service at Doveton.  Find location details for this service (including maps) at this link.

Aim'n High is now taking enrolments. For more information call the South East Youth Connections Program on 1800 335 106.

To coordinate an interview with Melinda Chapman or for photo opportunities, contact:

• Sigrid Rynehart, Mission Australia on (03) 8615 2226 / 0428 865 335 or ryneharts@missionaustralia.com.au
• Emily Lehmann, Fenton Communications on (03) 9600 0006 / 0421 852 501 or emilyl@fenton.com.au