Community houses

Overview

Community houses, also known as neighbourhood houses or learning centres, provide a broad range of easily affordable educational and recreational programs in local communities. Activities are provided for both children and adults and can include programs such as English language classes, computer training, art and craft courses and a range of recreational and physical activity programs.  Community houses also provide opportunities to volunteer and participate in the life of the community. 

What is a community house?

Community houses are community-managed not-for-profit organisations that offer activities and classes as required by the community. Funded, pre-accredited classes are also offered, providing pathways onto further study or employment.  

What is an adult learning centre?

An adult learning centre is a community-owned and managed, registered training organisation, where adults can learn and upgrade their skills. 

What are the benefits?

Community houses and adult learning centres are not-for-profit organisations that strengthen local community by offering a diverse range of community activities, learning opportunities and resources for personal development. The benefits for students studying at a community house or an adult learning centre are that they can:

• develop their skills in a non-threatening and nurturing environment;
• study in smaller classes that focus on individual learning styles;
• study a part-time course;
• pay affordable fees;
• access childcare; and
• enrol anytime.

What can a community house and/or adult learning centre offer you?

Activities and classes that may be offered include:

• three-year-old kindergarten;
• arts and craft workshops;
• book clubs;
• chess groups;
• childcare facilities;
• community garden projects;
• computer classes;
• creative writing/memoirs;
• cultural classes;
• English as a second language (ESL) classes;
• exercise classes;
• friendship/support groups;
• language classes (French, Spanish, Italian);
• movie groups;
• music for children;
• photography classes;
• playgroups;
• reading, writing and numeracy programs;
• skill development programs (MYOB, business administration, job preparation, introduction to children’s services);
• small business and marketing programs (social marketing, eBay, setting up a small business, writing a business plan, marketing your business — understanding your website needs);
• walking groups; and
• youth groups.

We support three community houses and one adult learning centre, which all welcome people from all backgrounds, ages and cultures.

Contact your local community house or adult learning centre for a copy of their programs.

 Local community houses