Extra support is now available to hundreds more Victorian students of African heritage through the extension of Allan Labor Government's ground-breaking Homework Club program, helping boost school engagement.
Minster for Education Ben Carroll today announced that applications for grants of up to $100,000 to run Clubs next year are now open, with the program empowering students to reach their full potential while strengthening ties within the community.
The $1.2 million extension to the Homework Club Grant Initiative will provide funding to community organisations working in partnership with school communities, which will deliver homework clubs, afterschool activities and parent engagement activities in 2024.
The grants are open to community organisations who have already worked with African-Victorians and school communities, helping give young people and their parents and carers confidence in education in Australia.
The program offers safe, inclusive and culturally appropriate spaces for African-Victorian young people and their families to meet and work on schoolwork, as well as build relationships by connecting with other Victorian families of African heritage.
It also aims to help families understand the processes and systems within schools so they can better support their children as they progress through their education - giving them a strong foundation for learning and skills for life.
More than 1,300 students have enrolled in these Homework Clubs since they were launched in June 2020, with feedback showing students are more confident and positive about school, and parents more engaged in their children's education.
Applications for 2024 are now open and will be accepted until 24 November. Visit schools.vic.gov.au/homework-club-grant-initiative for more information.
The Homework Clubs have received a total of $5.1 million through the Victorian African Communities Action Plan, which is empowering African communities across the state to have a strong sense of belonging, connection, and inclusion in Victoria.
As stated by Minister for Education Ben Carroll
"We're extending this program because we're passionate about giving every young person the best opportunity to reach their potential - and giving the extra support where it's needed."
"The evidence shows that these clubs are helping students and families to better understand, engage and succeed at school, which is setting students up with the skills they need to thrive in life."
As stated by Minister for Multicultural Affairs Ingrid Stitt
"Providing young people with spaces to feel engaged and supported in our diverse communities helps build pride of identity - with the extra support from our Homework Clubs giving African Victorian students and families confidence to thrive in education."
As stated by Pauline Richards MP - Chair of Victorian African Communities Committee
"Programs like the Homework Club provide members of our communities of African heritage with a place to enrich their learning, connect and share experiences with others - giving a sense of belonging and helping students thrive."
