Links to Learning is a Mission Australia education program administered and funded by the NSW Department of Education and Training.

The Early Leavers program aims to re-engage young people aged 15-24 with learning by providing education and employment training opportunities. It's a voluntary program for young people who are no longer enrolled in school and have not completed their Higher School Certificate.

Participants are referred from local school welfare officers, Centrelink, Police Youth Liaison Officers, Crisis Refuges, Employment Programs, Youth Pathways and Neighbourhood Centres.

Participants of the program face issues relating to: self-esteem, confidence, homelessness, financial restraints, transport, low levels of numeracy and literacy, being single parents, frequent relocation, juvenile justice requirements, physical and mental health problems, bullying, domestic violenc and family conflict.

How you can help

You can volunteer with Links to Learning in one of the following roles: clerical support, one-to-one tutoring or group facilitation. You can choose a subject of interest to you to teach to a small group in a supportive environment. The subject must compliment the program outline which includes training in communication; teamwork, technology; problem solving; initiative and enterprise; self management; planning, organising and learning.

Our current clerical volunteer, Lorraine, has only been with us for a few short weeks but remarkedt: “I am getting so much out of this and I truly look forward to the time I spend at Links to Learning”.

Volunteers work closely with clients to assist them in their learning pathways, and play an important role in the program.

Each year we conduct courses of 8-10 weeks for small groups of up to fourteen participants. There is at least one worker for every ten participants. The course encompasses employability skills, life skills, job search skills, the development of personal attributes and work experience. Participants are encouraged, supported, and hopefully inspired, along their journey to success

Accredited training is important and is also incorporated into the course. On course completion, participants can receive a Links to Learning Certificate, Resume and Certificate of Attendance in the eight Employability Skills, Job Search, First Aid, Barista, Hospitality and individual Certificates for outstanding efforts or contributions.

As we only have a short time to impact the lives of our young people, the program includes a Next Step referral combined with three months post support for each participant. Next Step options include work trials, external TAFE courses, Pre-Apprenticeship and other accredited training, completing formal education through school, Personal Support Programs, Green Corps, volunteering programs and Living Skills programs through other service providers. This allows individuals to further develop skills in a safe, supportive and well-resourced environment.

Register your interest

If you’re interested in volunteering with Links to Learning in either Fairfield, Campbelltown or Wollongong, please get in touch with Fiona Ivits on 02 9288 0070 or at volunteering@missionaustralia.com.au