Mountain District Learning Centre
Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (10:33): Originally a women’s co-op, Mountain District Learning Centre in Ferntree Gully has been serving the community for over 51 years. Over that time it has broadened to provide opportunities to people from all walks of life, including our young adults. MDLC runs a cottage program for students who need some extra support outside of their mainstream school from years 7 to 10, and its latest exciting venture has been the creation of The Avenue School this year, a specialist senior secondary school which is supporting students requiring alternate secondary pathways. These young people are thriving in a nurturing environment that supports their individual learning journeys, and it was absolutely wonderful to tour with the Premier the other week and speak with the staff about the profoundly positive impact that The Avenue is having on these young adults’ lives. Great thanks to the Premier for taking the time to visit this jewel in Ferntree Gully’s crown, which has supported the community for over half a century.