Antonia Nimorakiotakis
VCAL Senior
Antonia Nimorakiotakis says Holmesglen felt like home from the very beginning of her VCAL studies.
“VCAL is very one-on-one, and I felt that aspect of Holmesglen made me really enjoy being there and learning new things every day,” she says.
Stepping out of her comfort zone, Antonia experienced a diverse spectrum of industry subjects, from painting to tourism.
Described by teachers as one of the strongest students, Antonia completed community work, in addition to her studies. This included creating care packages and picking up groceries for her neighbours.
Antonia says she is keen to undertake further study at Holmesglen
Sasha Soutorine
VCAL Intermediate
Sasha Soutorine’s Intermediate VCAL course has been the motivation for him to explore trade industry streams in his Senior VCAL year.
Sasha handled the move to remote learning in 2020 with positivity and patience and says VCAL has offered him the chance to be a mentor and embrace learning.
“The best experiences at Holmesglen are making new friends and trying out new subjects that you’ve really been passionate about studying.”
In his spare time, Sasha looms large as Ormond Football Club’s Ruckman and is developing his work skills at Murrumbeena’s Oasis Bakery.
Shani Downs - 2021 winner
VCAL Intermediate
Shani Downs has demonstrated her community-minded approach, through her fundraising efforts in support of mental health initiatives.
Shani’s fundraising connected her with ReachOut, an Australian organisation that delivers mental health and wellbeing digital programs to young people.
She describes Holmesglen as a calming place and hopes to use VCAL as a steppingstone to an early childhood education course.
“VCAL has been such a massive step for me. You feel like you can be yourself.”
Shani is currently developing her work and communication skills as a casual team member at JB Hi-Fi.