This paper discusses how VET level training can support learning and capacity building in the areas of language work skills, visual arts and information literacy in a remote community context. It reports on an educational project at Utopia around the theme of bush medicine. Alyawarr and Anmatyerr elders are involved as project consultants, which enables them to contribute language and other knowledge in a semi-formal learning context. They have also been invited to participate in research into the ‘both-ways’ approach to the content, direction and outcomes of this project, by documenting their life long teaching and learning experiences.