1970s history

1973 – Duke Street Community House Inception

The Duke Street Community House Assoc. Inc (formerly the Tottenham Technical Schoolhouse) was established in 1973. The development of the house was slow because of the difficulty in obtaining funding and the complexities encountered supporting a new and innovative project.

1974

During 1974, steps were taken to formalise the establishment of 27 Duke Street as a Community House The Education Department leased the house at 27 Duke Street from Sunshine Council and work began to adapt the facilities so that classes could be held. Initially teachers and the Coordinator went door knocking to explain to parents the purpose of the community house and the advantages it would provide for students, the school and the area.

1975 - The Official Opening

The centre was officially opened in this year, although records of the details as to specifically how that occurred are scant or non-existent. The house was beginning its career as a Community Learning Centre. Braybrook Rejoice!

1976

During school hours boys were able to elect to do activities at the house, which were mostly cooking lessons. Groups of boys were able to cook lunch for their form mates and teachers and invite them all down to the house for lunch. A 'Youth Outreach Worker' and a worker from the Commonwealth Employment Service established offices and the first Adult Literacy program was established. 'After school Wednesday programs' became popular with Totty Tech students and teachers spending a couple of hours doing art, craft, and listening to records or tapes and talking. One teacher and a few students usually cooked a meal, for around 16 people (of which 5 or 6 were staff) and everyone had tea at the house. It is said that after dinner, cards were played and the house closed around 10.00 pm.

1977

Throughout the years 1977 to 1979, activities offered to the local community and students continued to expand. The main development was the remedial assistance for students. Local teachers and volunteer tutors assisted with reading, writing and maths skills two evenings a week. All groups were encouraged to participate in projects such as gardening, a community newspaper, a toddler’s playgroup and to exchange learning skills. A video recording called 'One Week at Duke Street' was produced.

1978

A massive boost was provided when the house was given some extensive interior renovation. During the first 5 years of existence the house had proved to be an essential ingredient in meeting the needs of all age groups.

1979

The Community House became far more popular than anyone had anticipated, over 200 people enrolled and many others would drop in. One lovely student was eighty-nine years old, she would walk to the house each week to learn how to crotchet a shawl for her great-grandchild. A program, which generated excitement amongst community members, was the camping program, the government gave a grant to buy a mini bus and the school’s Parents and Friends Association donated money for tents. This was to help develop the social and educational well being of the students New classes included painting and drawing, creative movement classes gave people the opportunity to explore fields in areas such as Jazz Ballet etc. A building program was completed during this year with the addition of new classrooms.