Gordon Education Centre celebrated the official opening of its Parent Hub last Friday which was made possible through a grant from OneFortyOne.
The facility includes an iPad, a printer, television, coffee and free second hand clothes, frozen meals (through Spare Ya Change 4 Kids) and sanitary items for parents.
Gordon Education Centre wellbeing SSO Mel Jones said she wants parents to take the lead and let her know how they want to utilise the space.
“This is their spot, I am happy to help them facilitate visitors coming in and out but it is about what they want to do here. It is their space so I hope they can all enjoy it,” she said.
“We were looking at ways to increase parent engagement, a lot of our students come in taxis, we do not see a lot of the parents so we are trying to engage them to come into the school, use the facilities and just have a chat.
“Sometimes it is nice to have a chat with someone and not feel judged and no one else is listening so it is more of a safe space for the parents to attend.
“We are in touch with different providers to come in and like Headspace are going to come and run a session but we are hoping to be led by the parents.
“The parents are grateful for the non-judgemental, safe and protective space.
“Thank you to OneFortyOne for not only giving us a grant but for their support and guidance through this process.”
Department for Education education director of the Blue Lake Partnership Adam Box acknowledged the staff at the Gordon Education Centre and OneFortyOne for their support in the Parent Hub.
“I think this whole area is going to be fantastic and is going to be very well utilised by the parents and the community,” he said.
Gordon Education Centre principal Lisa Thomas said the space was needed and encouraged parents to create positive experiences.
“It gives them a space to connect and share their struggles when they often feel isolated,” she said.
“They can celebrate their children’s achievements, make networks outside of their home and have a coffee and a chat.
“The space has the ability to evolve and we are open to suggestions by the parents.
“We will do whatever we can to help parents amid the rising cost of living and hope this space helps.”
The parent of a child at Gordon Education Centre said the hub was absolutely amazing and she enjoyed having a chat and engaging with other parents.
“It is isolating being a parent of a child with a disability and judgement by others is the hardest part,” they said.
“I am more than happy to talk to other parents struggling so they know they are not alone.
“It is helpful to know this is an option and I can have peace and quiet or a listening ear from other parents without being judged and to know what services are available.”
