• Want to try glass blowing?

Short courses in the ancient art of glass blowing are being offered by the Faculty of Art & Design at Caulfield.

According to glass coordinator Mr Nick Wirdnam, the courses in both hot and warm glass techniques are aimed at people who have no previous experience with glass.

"Unlike other applied arts like painting or sculpture, there are limited opportunities for trying glass blowing because of the kiln facilities needed, which reach temperatures of 1200 degrees, and the safety requirements associated with it," he explained.

The courses generally consist of eight four-hour sessions and will be taken by recognised artists, teachers and glass specialists.

The courses, which will take place between 12 and 16 June and continued between 19 and 22 June, include: introduction to glass blowing; pâte de verre; slumping and fusing; introduction to kiln-casting (functional and sculptural); and painting on glass.

Courses run from 5 pm to 9 pm. For further information or to register, contact Mr Nick Wirdnam on extn 32548.

• Positive ageing

A recent symposium coordinated by the School of Nursing reported on international policy trends and research initiatives in aged care and rehabilitation nursing.

Opened by State Minister for Aged Care Bronwyn Pike, the symposium covered issues concerning healthy, positive ageing, as well as aged care trends in Asia and the UK.

Keynote speaker Professor Helen Bartlett, director of the Oxford Centre for Health Care Research and Development, Oxford Brookes University, UK, discussed some of the policies being implemented in South East Asia and the UK.