RU OK? Day 2018

Asking  RU OK? can make a big difference to someone who is struggling. If you notice a friend, family member or colleague who seems to be having a hard time coping, make the time to start a conversation and ask, RU OK? It could save a life!

It sounds like a simple question, but sometimes it can be hard to start such an important conversation. Maybe you feel like you don’t know how to ask? A relaxed chat while sharing a meal or over a cuppa is one great way to find out how someone you care about is feeling and to offer them your support.

Your local TAFE Library holds a variety of resources that you may find useful, ranging from books and eBooks on mental health to cookbooks with recipe ideas for dinner with friends.

Remember, you can ask RU OK? any day of the year….

 

 

 

Never too old to learn!

When Alex asked me to make a TAFE card for him I had to look twice at his date of birth, 1924.

Yes he was 94 years old and about to learn how to use a tablet.

Alex is one of 8 students over the age of 50, who have enrolled in a free computer course at TAFE NSW Belmont.

Their teacher, Jody Schofield, has taught the students how to navigate around the tablet, download apps, and search the internet. She said the students have really enjoyed learning new skills.

A few things that amazed 94 year old Alex was being able to see his house from space, working out how long a trip will take from one place to another in a matter of minutes and how fun some of the games were.

All students are loving their course and this just goes to show that you’re never too old to learn new tricks!!

TAFE NSW Libraries Celebrate Harmony Day

 

The Gosford campus ESOL section organised a BBQ and smorgasbord of cultural dishes, a concert featuring cultural fashion parade, Japanese language teaching, music, singing and dancing. The library participated with a promotional table with balloons, ribbons and stickers.

Cessnock Campus hosted a Harmony Day BBQ and students enjoyed the occasion by gathering in the canteen. The food was cooked by the wonderful Edwina who manages the canteen, catering for approx 60 students who devoured sausage sandwiches complete with homemade coleslaw, onions and a variety of condiments, all washed down with orange or apple juice. Childrens’ Services students provided the decorations for the event and the library and were asked to include what “Harmony Day” meant to them. The sentiments behind their decorations were wonderful.

Newcastle Campus staff and students enjoyed sampling delicious food from around the world. Students brightened up the day with colourful traditional fashion!

If you are interested in learning more about other cultures or finding support resources, start by having a look at these LibGuides:

Aboriginal Studies and ATSI Cultural Arts  

Education SupportEnglish and ESOL  

Hunter and Central Coast Websites  

Multiculturalism and Travel, Tourism, Event Management & Outdoor Recreation