It is an Adult Community Education Centre. It is a not for profit organisation which is community owned and managed.
What happens at DVLC?
You certainly won’t find rows of students sitting silently copying from the blackboard.
At DVLC students are encouraged to interact and participate in class activities; There are a range of projects for students to get involved in. For example, our maths class have been involved in monitoring water in the Plenty River through WaterWatch. Excursions are also an important part of most programs. Food is also a very important part of life at DVLC. There is always something to celebrate!
Our students
It’s impossible to describe a “typical Diamond Valley Learning Centre student”. People come to our centre for many different reasons. When students have their tea break and the kitchen is packed you might meet:
• A mother whose youngest child has just started school and she’s doing a Certificate in Business Administration to return to the workforce.
• A 19 year old studying VCAL because she didn’t finish school due to her learning difficulties.
• A 70 year old man who is in the computer club so that he can keep up with his grandchildren.
• A 24 year old who is doing Red Card training so that he can work in the construction industry.
Our teachers
We have a wonderful staff of experienced teachers who are committed to providing quality education programs for adults.
Why do people study at DVLC?
• There are a wide range of courses to choose from.
• Classes are small
• Our teachers are excellent.
• It’s a friendly environment – you certainly won’t get lost!
• It’s convenient – just a short walk from buses and trains
In the beginning…
The Diamond Valley Learning Centre started in 1974 to assist women returning to study. It was one of the first adult community education centres in Victoria. Over the years it has grown and the program has expanded to meet a wide range of learners’ needs. You can read more about it in our history book “Insistent Voices” which is available from the centre.
Diamond Valley Learning Centre now
The Centre is a hub of activity from 9 in the morning through to 9.30 at night with a range of adult learning opportunities. People come to the centre to learn new skills, gain qualifications and meet new people. The centre brings together adults of all ages and many different nationalities.
What does the logo represent?
The outer shape is made up of the letters L & C for Learning Centre. The shape represents a solid foundation for learning with the round part representing the nurturing environment of DVLC. The square shape can also symbolize a classroom or the building.
The inner shape represents a valley (as well as the letter V). The centre is located in a valley next to the Plenty River. It also represents a book, a symbol of learning. Together with the diamond it can be a student studying, the centre promotes personal growth, moving from a supportive environment out into the world. The open side of the “class” signifies moving out.
Last but not least, the diamond…the most precious gem. The Diamond Valley Learning Centre is about discovery; discovering more about yourself, discovering new friends and discovering the joy of learning.
About the building
The Centre operates out of a 1920s weatherboard building which was originally Lobb’s Tea Rooms. It was used by the peace corp in the war years then became footy change rooms in the 1960s.
It has been renovated a number of times as the centre grows and changes.
Each room at the centre is named after different women who played a significant role in the development of the centre
External link: Diamond Valley Living and Learning Centre
See also Greensborough Tea Rooms
Photo: 1978. DV_D_00231 Reflections of Diamond Valley collection, Yarra Plenty Regional Library
