Emily Matthews

For Emily Matthews, school was not always a positive place. 

“I was a student in a regional area, struggling to learn with a visual processing disorder and there wasn’t a lot of support,” Emily said. “When I left school in year 11, I struggled with literacy, especially spelling. It made me feel trapped, and worried that I wasn’t going to succeed at anything.”

As we emerged from the restrictions of Covid, Emily decided to give learning another chance. She enrolled in the Learn Local Literacy for Life program at our Smith Street Campus.

“When I started I was so shy and nervous. It took a lot for me just to go inside the building. I couldn’t talk to anyone at first,” Emily explained. “But CCG was so different to what I had previously experienced at school. It was warm, welcoming and friendly. The classes were centred around me and how I liked to learn.

“It was so nice to feel supported and encouraged, and to finally see steps forward. I no longer felt trapped, or like I wasn’t good enough. I have made lifelong friends, and we still support each other.”

Today, the bright, confident and capable Emily is right at home in the classroom and is currently halfway through completing the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care qualification at the Warragul Campus.

Her recent work placement in a local childcare centre was so successful that they have invited Emily to apply for a position when she is qualified.

“I have found my confidence at CCG and I am really excited about my future.”