For many participants in the Cairns STEPS Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program, stepping into the local library was a meaningful experience.
Justyna, a dedicated STEPS Trainer working with the low-level language class, recently organised the class visit with a simple but powerful goal: to introduce the library as a free, welcoming space where learning and community come together.
“For some of my participants, this was their very first time in a library,” Justyna shared.
“A few have never been to school before, and their first experience with class-based education began right here at STEPS.”
In preparation for the visit, the class filled out library membership forms together, turning the process into a practical language activity.
Once at the library, participants completed their applications and began exploring everything the space had to offer.
One of the highlights was discovering ‘talking books’: audiobooks that allow learners to hear stories in English. Several participants borrowed these, excited to continue their learning journey at home.
The group also practiced digital literacy by using the self-service kiosk to scan their library cards and borrow books independently.
Justyna encouraged the participants to explore books related to their personal interests, like cooking and gardening, helping them connect language learning with their passions.
She also introduced them to the library’s free activities, such as puzzle stations and speaking corners, which offer more opportunities to build language skills in a relaxed social setting.
“I wanted to show the participants that the library is a safe and inclusive space where they can learn and grow for free,” Justyna said.
Step into new opportunities with the STEPS SEE Program
If you are interested in joining the SEE Program at one of our STEPS sites, please visit the Skills for Education and Employment webpage or call our friendly team at 1300 131 965 for more information.
