Assessing with Purpose: The Power of Theme-Based Assessment 12 June 2025, 5:30pm – 6:30pm, AEDT, Online Summary VicTESOL was pleased to have two experienced EAL teachers and curriculum leaders from...
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In this presentation, Rhonda Oliver from Curtin University took us through some of the key issues that need to be considered when teaching First Nation Australian students, as informed by recent studies in collaboration with other researchers and educators. Some of these issues include a consideration of students’ diverse language backgrounds, the impact of cultural issues on learning, and the importance of family. Rhonda outlined some practical suggestions for different approaches and strategies which support the learning experience for First Nation students and all students of diverse backgrounds.
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The Science of Reading in TESOL: Challenges, Opportunities, and Practical Approaches 8 May 2025, 5:30pm – 6:30pm, AEDT, Online Summary This session explores the body of research from science of...
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Clustering Delivery and Assessment 6 March 2025, 5:30pm – 6:30pm, AEDT, Online Summary In this presentation, Frances La Riccia unpacked the process she and her Melbourne Polytechnic colleagues use to...
Meet the Assessors Online 2025 13 February 2025, 4:30pm – 6:00pm, AEDT, Online Summary The VCAA Chief Assessor for VCE EAL, Jenna Gomes, and Deputy Chief Assessors, Linda Hogan and...
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In this session, final year PHD candidate Sherry, from the Queensland University of Technology unpacked her research into digital inclusion and equity for young people from refugee and asylum seekers in Australia. Her findings highlighted the complex challenges faced by students and educators in terms of access, resourcing and safe learning spaces. The session raised important issues for policy makers and the role of educators to provide culturally responsive and safe learning and facilitate resourcing for access to technology. It also provided insight into many of the challenges young people face during re-settlement and the critical role technology plays in both settlement and education.
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VicTESOL were very pleased to have Dr Melanie Baak present the key note address for the 2024 symposium, which set the scene for the rest of the symposium events. Melanie presented on a significant body of research looking at how schools foster resilience for students from refugee backgrounds. She presented key learnings and information that resonated with the experiences of attendees. Melanie’s insights were very thought provoking, which generated lively discussions between attendees in break out room sessions and led nicely to the next programmed event – hearing the experiences of young people of refugee backgrounds in Victorian schools.
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In this session, Lindsey Hogg, Professional Learning Officer, and Allison Greene, Lead and GROWTH Coach, from Foundation House Schools Support Program presented a session on Foundation House’s Recovery Model. This session unpacked practical and developmentally appropriate support strategies for learners’ impacted by trauma. The session emphasized the importance of trauma informed practice when working with learners from refugee or refugee like background and the importance of creating safe and culturally responsive learning environments that empower and promote the establishment of safe and nurturing relationships.
For More information of Foundation House Recovery Model or Refugee Education Support Program or wellbeing services for education sites contact: (03) 9389 8900
School support: https://foundationhouse.org.au/specialised-programs/schools/
Referral Support: https://foundationhouse.org.au/for-clients/make-a-referral/
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