July 2004

Young people benefit from teacher’s return

Ian Holten left teaching in 1993 to pursue a passion—repairing and manufacturing furniture.

Three years later, a close friend asked him to consider going back to teaching—working with students in the secondary system at risk of dropping out.

After much thought he agreed—a decision based on giving back to children the time, effort and guidance that many adults had given to him in his youth.

Mr Holten co-ordinates OASIS—an alternative education program at Sunshine Secondary College for students not experiencing success in mainstream schools and who face expulsion or simply drop out.

The OASIS program works on the basis that all children can succeed given enough time and support.

It aims to reconnect students with education by developing their confidence, self-esteem and giving them purpose in their school life.

Mr Holten’s work has earned him the Save the Children White Flame Award.

The White Flame award is an annual recognition of efforts that help the grossly disadvantaged.