Wild Learning is the brainchild of Emmie Hallett, known to many as the founder of Cessnock’s community choir, the Undeniably Noisy Project.

“It’s not a training organisation or a school, it grew from an idea to fill underused spaces with marvellous people and inspiring programs to create interesting things for locals to do,” Ms Hallett said.

“Our focus is on creating workshops and short courses to get you moving, thinking, smiling, creating and connecting.”

Wild Learning will offer short courses, workshops, activities and learning events “that will inspire and make us feel good”, Ms Hallett said.

These will include creative, music and performing arts, wellness, skills and community programs.

Venues in Branxton, Kurri Kurri,  Wollombi and Cessnock mean locals won’t have to travel far for a Wild Learning experience.

“It’s really important that easy access to take up a new interest, learn a new skill or indulge in a favourite hobby or craft is not too far away,” Ms Hallett said.

“And this is all about the joy of learning new things,  providing a genuinely fun experience that our community will really warm to and enjoy.”

And what makes her think it’s all possible?

Other than 16 years in community services work, Ms Hallett says: “My mother is Swedish, my father is Welsh. It means I am genetically programmed to be very good at making flat pack furniture and singing in choirs. Practical and fun!”

And while a laugh and the emphasis on learning is top of mind,  Ms Hallett’s philosophy is to see community halls come to life, filled with locals learning fabulous things and to see community groups benefit from the additional rental income.

“Wild Learning will not have a single building or space like a traditional college; it will support local community groups, businesses and facilities by hiring the wonderful spaces available in our community to hold our courses, workshops and activities,” she said.

Likewise, the teachers and instructors she needs to help fill these rooms of learning would be, mainly, locals.

“There is so much knowledge in our area: there are trades that we don’t want to see lost, enthusiasms be shared, practices be passed down,” she said.

“It’s all about connections – or connectivity –  if you want to use a younger language,” Ms Hallett said.

Enrolments will open in June and the first term of programs will start late July.

If you have a space to offer, a talent to teach or a keenness to learn, email info@wildlearning.com.au.

Find out more at www.wildlearning.com.au.