The beach is a classroom

Ali Deane

August 18 2012

SEDA program coordinator Stuey Hawken (right) and his prot?g?s.

Next week the students of Torquay?s growing surf education program will showcase what they?ve been up to and give future classmates a sneak peek into what?s involved at their annual Open Night at Surf World on August 22.

Sports Education and Development Australia (SEDA) provides year 11/12 and first year university students a unique hands-on study alternative, with a focus on sport and the accompanying industry. The open night will be hosted by the students and is open to prospective students, parents, industry representatives and the general public. It will feature presentations, films and discussions.

Program coordinator Stuey Hawken said SEDA was all about engaging students in something they?re passionate about.

?It?s a great alternative, they develop study skills, and they come out of it with multiple qualifications and are work-ready,? he said.

SEDA sets students up with multiple work placement opportunities, and they can walk away with Certificate III, IV and a diploma in sport and recreation, senior VCAL and a VCE certificate of completion.

Connor McGrath, a first year SEDA student, travels hours to get to class, and is on multiple organising committees for local events. He said the program was very motivating.

?I?m a soccer player, but I?d lost motivation at school. This is something new, and the surfing was the main appeal. It?s like the workplace, there?s no mucking around, the surfing and the motivation ? you actually want to be here.?

Some of the subjects students can sink their teeth into at SEDA include event management, coaching, fitness, training plans, first aid, club management, client services, work related skills and more.

Courtney Hobbs, who?s in the middle of Certificate IV, said she originally planned to enrol in SEDA?s football program in Geelong, but heard about SEDA in Torquay, and got back into surfing.

?I?m enjoying it so much and the opportunities in the industry are really good. To anyone who loves their sport like us all here, it?s a great outlet.?

The SEDA Open Night kicks off at 7pm at Surf World on Wednesday August 22.

Source: http://m.surfcoasttimes.com.au/news/community/2012/08/18/the-beach-is-a-classroom/

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