Thanks to all who attended the VALBEC conference - we had over 120 registered participants, 9 organisation tables displaying their products, a raffle with 11 prizes, opening by John Maddock AM, Welcome to Country with Uncle , keynote address by Jo Medlin, singing with Chris Falk, and 16 discreet presentations! Thanks to all involved in the organisation and to VALBEC project manager, Debbie Soccio.
The AGM was also held and a new committee was formed. Farewell and thanks to Zoe Repse and welcome to Jayesh Chauhan. The executive is yet to be finalised.
Did it slip your mind? There's still time to renew!
You can join or renew online. It's still not too late to join for 2026. Click here to join or renew your membership.
If you join in August, September or October, deduct 50%. Renewal falls due the following February.
Members receive:
- Fine Print two issues per year – a high quality journal for discussion and debate about good practice, theory and policy issues. Feedback and contributions are actively sought from members about content and issues.
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eVALBEC – our e-mail communication keeping members informed of professional development activities, general committee activities and more up to date policy changes.
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Discounts for the Annual Conference and other VALBEC statewide professional development.
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Issues-based forums.
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Focus on significant policy issues impacting on the field.
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Free numeracy resources.
Dear reader - you may have seen an article about literacy teacher Kate Nonesuch in Fine Print over the years.
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Kate Nonesuch. (2015). Neither kind nor patient. Fine Print (Melbourne, Vic.), 38(1), 7–8.
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Kate Nonesuch. (2016). The joy of the difficult. Fine Print (Melbourne, Vic.), 39(3), 34–35.
Or perhaps like me, you follow her blog. Sadly, for us the blog is closing:
https://katenonesuch.com/blog/
So if you’d like to have a rummage around and glean as you go, now’s the time. Kate has retired and to see what she is up to in her retirement, check out this link: https://www.youtube.com/@katenonesuch
VALBEC Professional Learning Forum
Adapt-learning from the learners and colleagues to improve teaching – one educator’s story
A VALBEC (Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Educational Council) Professional Learning session presented by Lindee Conway.
Who: Lindee Conway
When: Wednesday 24th June 2026, 5.15-6.15 pm AEST
Where: Zoom
Cost: Free for VALBEC members; non-Members $10
In this online seminar, Lindee will talk about the joy of discussing great teaching ideas with colleagues - and how their ideas make her classes better. She'll also talb about learning from the adult learners in her classes. Three examples will be offered:
- Digital – when the class went so, so wrong!
- Literacy – learning from a colleague's purposeful ideas.
- Numeracy – How Lindee watched and learnt...fast!
Lindee has been involved in adult learning and teaching - lucky for her! She never gets tired of talking to educators. Her sessions for teachers are inclusive and realistic.
If you are interested, register here.
Conference Opportunities
The 2026 VDC (VET Development Centre) National Teaching & Learning Conference is a premier two-day event for the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector, running from August 13 to August 14, 2026
Click on the link to learn more about the trauma aware education conference.
As we have still not finalised the executive committee for this year, we thought it would be great to introduce our newest member to the committee.
Jayesh Chauhan has over twenty years of experience teaching Physics and Mathematics across secondary, senior secondary, and higher‑education levels in India and Australia. As a Physics Unit Convener, he contributed to curriculum design and academic coordination while teaching Electromagnetism, Fibre Optics, Electronics, and Higher‑Education Mathematics. He holds a Master’s degree in Physics with a dissertation in Quantum Mechanics and a Bachelor of Education in Physics and Mathematics. He received three Vice‑Chancellor commendations at Swinburne University for student ratings of 9/10 and has reviewed all VCE Mathematics (Years 8–12) and VCE Physics Units 1–4 answers for Wiley (Jacaranda).
Currently working at Chisholm Institute, Jayesh's current interests and work-life include delivering practical numeracy methods in the plumbing trades area. He is using a range of techniques (which also apply to building and carpentry) and is exploring different ways to teach volumes, measurements, and calculations through visual tools, drawings, and simple problem‑solving steps for these apprentices. He is keenly focussed on seeing how these approaches boost engagement, deepen understanding, and build learner confidence while offering the teacher fresh, adaptable ideas for teaching numeracy in trade settings.
Welcome! We look forward to working with you.
It was great to see so much interest in Fine Print at the VALBEC conference. Please subscribe to VALBEC to make sure you receive your copy (paper or e-version) which will be out in June. The upcoming issue will feature an article by Jo Medlin about the project she did with Reading Writing Hotline about engaging literacy learners.
There will be all the regular sections as well for you to enjoy.
Digital Literacy
Brush up on Microsoft Excel! This is a simple resource to help with excel spreadsheet skills. The video is broken into relevant chapters for efficient navigation. The video is broken up into chapters including:
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adjusting and inserting cells, columns and rows
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adjusting zoom
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formatting cells
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conditional formatting
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using formulas
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hide and unhide rows and columns
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autofit contents
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functions
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charts and tables.
Click on the title of the program to get started: Excel Tutorial for Beginners (16:16)
Engaging adult literacy learners: A literature review: Reading Writing Hotline
Medlin, J. (2025). Engaging adult literacy learners: A literature review. Reading Writing Hotline.
Through a review of current Australian and international literature, the Hotline seeks to understand good practice in outreach engagement that links adults experiencing unmet literacy needs to appropriate educational services. The aim of the review was to explore good practice in engaging adults in literacy education.
Across Australia there are adults currently experiencing literacy challenges who may wish to engage in literacy education but face multiple systematic barriers that prevent access. The conclusion that emergers from the literature is that literacy outreach programs can overcome multiple barriers and successfully link potential learners to appropriate education services.
Have we piked your interest? Here is the literature review.
Western Australia Day
Western Australia Day is a public holiday for those living in WA. It celebrates the state's history, culture and community. Locals often enjoy long weekend traditions and attend community festivals.
Global Day of Parents
The Global Day of Parents recognises the dedication of parents and caregivers worldwide. It is a simple reminder to appreciate family and offer support to those raising children.
2 Tues
June 2 is National Leave the Office Early Day (U.S.), so it’s the perfect excuse to wrap up work a little sooner than usual. This light-hearted observance encourages people who regularly put in more than 40 hours a week to step back and make time for themselves.
Roughly one in three Americans works beyond the standard 40-hour week, and many put in far more. People who run their own businesses or juggle multiple jobs may clock anywhere from 60 to 80 hours weekly. Schedules like that leave very little room for family, personal wellbeing, or keeping up with things at home. Before long, stress starts building, and so do the missed calls from loved ones — and maybe even your gym checking in. It might be time to step away from your desk and reclaim a bit of your day.
If you’re not convinced your boss will support the idea, it may still be worth suggesting. In fact, it could even inspire a fun persuasive writing activity for students — asking them to argue for their own version of a “National Leave School Early Day.”
World Bicycle Day is on 3 June. The United Nations created the day to celebrate bicycles as a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly way to travel.
It also encourages people to use bicycles to support health, learning, inclusion, and a more peaceful community. The UN also supports local and national bike rides to help improve wellbeing and promote cycling in everyday life.
Mabo Day honours Eddie Mabo and his successful campaign for Indigenous land rights. It marks the historic Mabo decision, which recognised Native Title in Australia. This day provides a vital opportunity for reflection on Indigenous rights and the ongoing reconciliation process.
4 Thurs
When National Hug Your Cat Day rolls around each year on June 4, the purr-fact opportunity presents itself for some snuggle time. Depending on your feline critter's nature, hugging may not be in the cards. However, like most animals, touch is a vital part of communication - and the same goes for the claw-ful kind.
All kitten aside, if you're fur-tunate enough to have a feline friend, any attention they give you may be a blessing. Others never leave your side and cuddle often. Of course, most cats have purr-sonality in spades.
5 Fri
Queensland Day celebrates the history and unique identity of Queensland. Communities gather for local events to show their state pride and connect with neighbours.
World Environment Day drives environmental awareness and climate action. It focuses on conservation themes highly relevant to Australia, offering practical sustainability actions that readers can take in their daily lives.
6 Sat
D-Day is June 6, and we honour those who fought on the beaches of Normandy, France. This historical day is a reminder of the day troops of Allied forces staged one of the most pivotal attacks against the German armies during World War II.
8 Mon
The King’s Birthday is a public holiday celebrated in most states and territories on the second Monday in June, making for a much-looked-forward-to June long weekend. This celebration of the birthday of the reigning monarch was known as the “Queen’s Birthday” during the more than seven decade reign of Queen Elizabeth II.
World Oceans Day
Did you know?
- The ocean produces at least 50% of the planet’s oxygen.
- The ocean is key to our economy with an estimated 40 million people being employed by ocean-based industries by 2030.
- Oceans absorb about 30% of carbon dioxide produced by humans, buffering the impacts of global warming.
- World Ocean Day focuses on marine conservation and ocean protection. It highlights the critical importance of protecting Australia’s extensive coastlines and fragile reef ecosystems.
World Ocean Day focuses on marine conservation and ocean protection. It highlights the critical importance of protecting Australia’s extensive coastlines and fragile reef ecosystems. Visit the official UN World Oceans Day website to learn more about the International Day, find out about news and celebrations, or read the latest news and reports on the oceans.
14 Sun
World Blood Donor Day is celebrated each year to highlight the importance of safe blood and to thank people who donate blood without payment.
A strong blood donation system is an important part of healthcare. Each year, the day has a new theme to honour the generosity of donors who help save lives.
16 Tues
Martyrdom of Guru Arjan Dev Ji
This observance carries historical and spiritual significance in Sikhism. It is a day marked by reflection, remembrance, and acts of community service.
15 Wed
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day 2026 will be recognised at a United Nations event in New York.
As people live longer, more older adults are also living with disability. This shows the need to connect ageing and disability support, especially in care, protection, and community services.
Elder abuse is often hidden and not reported. It can include physical, emotional, or financial harm, as well as neglect. Preventing it requires strong support systems that protect the rights, dignity, and independence of older people.
#WEAAD2026
18 Sat
National Vegemite Day celebrates an iconic Australian food. It highlights Vegemite’s place in Australian culture and nostalgia, prompting fun breakfasts and morning teas across the country.
National Islamic New Year
The Islamic New Year holds great significance within the Islamic calendar. It is a time for reflection, renewal, and community observances. Non-Muslim Australians can show respect by learning about the cultural importance of this time.
20 Mon
World Refugee Day
Did you know? Every minute 20 people leave everything behind to escape war, persecution or terror.
World Refugee Day is an international day designated by the United Nations to honour refugees around the globe. It falls each year on June 20 and celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution. World Refugee Day is an occasion to build empathy and understanding for their plight and to recognize their resilience in rebuilding their lives.
21 Tues
The Winter Solstice marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Southern Hemisphere. It is a time for seasonal traditions, winter reflection, and gathering indoors with loved ones.
A solstice — derived from the Latin sol ("sun") and sistere ("to stand still"), because the seasonal movement of the Sun's daily path (as seen from Earth) appears to "stand still" at a northern or southern limit before reversing direction — is an event that occurs when the Sun reaches its most northerly or southerly day-arc relative to the equator.
Therefore, there are two solstices that occur annually: around June 21 (commonly known as "Summer Solstice" for being the first day of summer and the longest day of the year) and December 21 (commonly known as "Winter Solstice" for being the first day of winter and the shortest day of the year).
World Music Day celebrates musical and artistic expression. Local performances and cultural events take place, bringing communities together through the power of sound.
23 Thurs
International Women in Engineering Day
This day celebrates women in STEM and engineering careers. It aims to inspire and encourage future generations of women to pursue technical industries.
27 Mon
Ashura holds deep religious significance in Islam. It involves reflection, remembrance, and spiritual observance. Showing respectful cultural understanding is important during this time.
30 Thurs
The End of Financial Year (EOFY) is a critical milestone for Australian businesses and sole traders. It involves tax planning, financial reporting, and preparation for the year ahead. Many Australians also take advantage of EOFY retail sales.
National Meat Pie Day celebrates an iconic Australian comfort food. It honours the history of the meat pie and encourages Australians to support their local bakeries and cafes.
Numeracy Professional Development
Put into your diaries: a VALBEC professional development day focusing on numeracy on Friday 23rd October at William Angliss.
CGEA Champions
A meeting of the CGEA Champions is planned for Tuesday 16th June 12-2pm. If you are interested in joining the meeting, please contact Chris Tully at christinetully@melbournepolytechnic.edu.auLook out for the NTEU branch executive elections. We ask all members to consider putting their hands up this year. It’s not a huge commitment and it’s a satisfying and enriching role. And you will be helping build a strong branch and a healthy sector.
Until then, your NTEU ACE Branch Executive contact is Bill Daly (Secretary) Email: bdaly@nteu.org.au or phone 0431 075 534.
Foundation Scholarship Opportunity
Do you work in Learn Local or would like to, but need some more professional development or qualifications?
The Commonwealth and Victorian governments are investing $4.5 million into professional development for the ACE sector in recognition of the high need for more qualified teachers.
The Adult Community Education (ACE) scholarships are provided by the Department of Jobs, Skills, Industry and Regions to people pursing a rewarding career as an adult literacy and numeracy educator delivering pre-accredited training with Learn Local providers in Victoria. The aim is to build the capacity and capabilities of pre-accredited teachers to undertake qualifications, specialist training and upskilling in language, literacy and numeracy.This scholarship is only available to Victorian students. Applications are now open and close at 11:59pm 31 December 2026.
Scholarships are available to commencing students only and are valued at up to $20,000 to be used whilst undertaking studies.
Interested: follow the link to The Victorian Adult Community Education (ACE) Scholarship to learn more.
eVALBEC
eVALBEC is the monthly electronic newsletter of (VALBEC) the Victorian Adult Literacy and Basic Education Council and is sent to about 1000 practitioners on the first of each month (other than January). It is also available in the ‘News’ section of our web site.
Disclaimer:
The activities, goods and services mentioned in eVALBEC are not endorsed by Valbec in any way. People should make their own judgment about the suitability of each item.
How to submit items: https://www.valbec.org.au/evalbec