The Noble Park Berry Street Victoria School in action at the Maroondah Grand Prix.By Nathan Johnston
STUDENTS at the Noble Park Berry Street Victoria School and Training Centre (BEST Centre) were among those who took part in the Maroondah Grand Prix event held earlier this month in Kilsyth.
The independent school caters for young people who have dropped out or been excluded from the formal education system.
This was the first year students from the centre have participated in the Grand Prix, which involves students in designing, developing and building push carts, hybrid and human powered vehicles.
Their vehicle was a combination pedal/engine powered hybrid vehicle which took months to complete.
The automotive program for students at the centre was introduced this year with funding provided by RACV.
The funds were used to buy an automotive hydraulic hoist, a vehicle for the students to repair, tools and equipment.
Teacher and program coordinator Oli Germantsis said the students had learned a range of valuable skills in designing and developing their vehicle.
“This has been a fantastic project for the students – as well as the practical experience of developing an energy efficient vehicle, it has assisted them in working collaboratively as a team.”
RACV community relations manager Amanda Webb said the RACV was delighted to be able to help the students develop skills that could be applied in everyday life.
“We hope the support we are providing to Berry Street’s automotive program will inspire and motivate the students to gain knowledge which is of benefit both personally and on a vocational level,” Ms Webb said.
The centre involves students in an individually tailored education program which includes remedial education work, recreational, craft and practical trade activities as well as life skills training. It has been operating in Noble Park for two years and accommodates up to 35 students each year.
Berry Street Victoria has been protecting and caring for children and strengthening families since 1877.
The organisation’s mission is to increase life chances for children and young people who have experienced the trauma of family violence, child abuse and neglect.
