NETschool puts teenage mothers back in school to provide a better future
TEENAGE mothers are returning to school in an effort to provide a better future for themselves and their children. NETschool, an annexe of Bendigo Senior Secondary College that caters for students who cannot attend mainstream education because of significant events in the lives, has 22 young mothers enrolled in the home-based program. Three mothers are on the waiting list. The school has been providing education to young people since 2005, and is growing annually. After completing their Victorian Certificate of Education through the on-line education forum, many go on to attend university. NETschool team facilitator Julie Connell said 2008 was a “huge baby year”. “These young women who come here come because they want to finish school,” she said. “It’s about giving them a real future and a future for their children. “Their economic earning capacity for their family is vastly increased if they have completed their Year 12 certificate.” Mrs Connell believes the school offers more than education, with many young mothers forming their own networks by attending classes one day each week. The NETschool also connects young parents with other primary care providers, such as maternal and child health nurses and young parenting programs. “All the girls will tell us they feel isolated,” she said. “They feel awkward about going to antenatal classes with people who are older than them or who are there with their husbands. “Some have partners and supportive families, but many don’t. “If more end up with an education, that’s all positive. “There’s a group of kids in the community doing it tough and they’re trying to make a difference.” NETschool is also supported by Bendigo Community Telco, which provides free internet access to young mothers, while BSSC offers free computers while the mothers finish their schooling. More than 30 BSSC teachers are involved with the online school to “meet a real need in the community”. NETschool is seeking a carer for babies for two hours each Thursday. The person must have a working with children certificate. For information phone 5441 8504.
