Reinvigorating ICT in the Portland Re-Engagement Program

The use of smartboards in the classroom will demonstrate the ICT skills required of workplaces and better equip students who are looking to enter into employment. By providing more up-to-date equipment for student use, we are providing increased opportunities for disengaged youth who have limited access to ICT at home and in the wider community due to social isolation, socio-economic status and high levels of community disengagement. By providing current ICT equipment and environments, this will develop skills in the education and employment areas for these young people aged 12-18 years old in an educational setting.

This will benefit our wider community by engaging 40 plus students each year in continuing formal education, providing current ICT and technology skills and information and providing access to those who ordinarily would not have it. Portland is a rural, isolated town with limited access to community technology. By providing opportunities for disengaged youth to have access and widen their own network and skill-set we are increasing their own employment opportunities and removing barriers and limitations that are placed through socio-economic status, disengagement and social isolation. By increasing employment opportunities and education engagement, we provide a safer, more connected community.