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FAME opens doors

Schools

When a single butterfly landed above Archbishop Patrick O’Regan as he led the Rite of Blessing for FAME Flexible School, it was a beautiful sight.

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The official opening of the flexible learning facility in Christie Downs on November 28 was full of poignant moments.
Proud Kaurna and Narungga man Jack Buckskin led a smoking ritual and Welcome to Country, followed by insights into how the Flexible Learning Centre (FLC), part of Edmund Rice Education Australia’s national initiative, provides an alternative to mainstream school for young people who need it.
The fee-free, flexible and supportive environment comprises a team of 28 staff, including two teachers and a youth worker in each class, music and technology teachers, psychologist, chef/hospitality specialist and two wellbeing leaders. Students are picked up, fed and dropped home if necessary.
The event was attended by Shaun Clarke (area principal SA), Paula Bacchiella (regional director SA/WA), Dr Matt Hawkins (CEO EREA Flexible Schools Ltd), Peter Pearce (board chair, EREA Flexible Schools Ltd), and members of the local community.
Andree Brown, executive director of Edmund Rice Education Australia and former FAME coordinator and youth worker, provided insight into FAME’s early days.
Students, led by music teacher Saz Burton, also performed a rousing rendition of songs, including As by Stevie Wonder.

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