For Existing users of the EALF – what’s new and different in the new curriculum
October 18 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Virtual Event

Summary

On the 17th and 18th of October adult sector teachers from all corners of Australia joined webinars that provided information on the recently accredited Victorian EAL Framework curriculum. The Curriculum Maintenance Manager, Nadia Casarotto provided an overview of the curriculum, highlighting the major changes from the current version. Angela Di Sciascio then looked at an example unit of competency from Certificate II EAL (Access) and stepped through the process of unpacking a unit. Angela also explained the relevant sections of the new unit structure for teachers as well as some tips on how to integrate units, skills and knowledge into assessment. Lots of questions were generated and these will be compiled into a FAQ page on the VicTESOL website – stay tuned for more information.

Recording

Resources

Angela DiSciascio Presentation

Download (PDF, 296KB)

Nadia Casarotto Presentation

Download (PDF, 748KB)

For new users of Victorian EALF – introduction to the new curriculum
October 17 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm, Virtual Event

Summary

On the 17th and 18th of October adult sector teachers from all corners of Australia joined webinars that provided information on the recently accredited Victorian EAL Framework curriculum. The Curriculum Maintenance Manager, Nadia Casarotto provided an overview of the curriculum, highlighting the major changes from the current version. Angela Di Sciascio then looked at an example unit of competency from Certificate II EAL (Access) and stepped through the process of unpacking a unit. Angela also explained the relevant sections of the new unit structure for teachers as well as some tips on how to integrate units, skills and knowledge into assessment. Lots of questions were generated and these will be compiled into a FAQ page on the VicTESOL website – stay tuned for more information.

Recording

Resources

Angela DiSciascio Presentation

Download (PDF, 333KB)

Nadia Casarotto Presentation

Download (PDF, 775KB)

The role of schools in supporting settlement: Focusing on wellbeing in migrant and refugee education.

August 30 from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm, Virtual Event

Summary

This session explored the vital role schools play in the settlement journey of migrant and refugee-background students. Mollie Daphne (Secondary School Teacher & PhD candidate, Victoria University) unpacked key frameworks which support the conceptualisation of settlement as a multifaceted, multidirectional process shaped by various factors. Throughout the session, participants were invited to consider the roles schools can play, through collaboration with other services, towards supporting the academic and social and emotional needs of newly arrived children and young people.

The session also including an engaging panel of presenters who all currently work in schools, supporting newly arrived students: Elena Di Mascolo, Sarah Douglas, Meagan Becker and Megan Salter. The panel discussed the challenges schools face in seeking to address settlement needs and shared examples from their own extensive professional experience of practical ways schools can advocate for and support young people from refugee and migrant backgrounds.

Recording

Resources

Download (PDF, 971KB)

Online LMERC Resourcing Event

September 6 from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm – Virtual Event

Summary

Participants had the opportunity to learn about Languages and Multicultural Education Resource Centre (LMERC) and the resources and assistance available.

Recording

Resources

Resources to Come

 

Applications for the Penny McKay Memorial Award are now open.

The Award honours the contribution to research and development in second/additional language education of Dr Penny McKay (1948-2009).

Electronic copies of the applications for the Award are due by midnight, 31 October of the calendar year following the submission of the thesis to the Chair of the Selection Panel, Prof Chris Davison, c.davison@unsw.edu.au.

More information is available below.

Download (DOCX, 85KB)

VicTESOL X NGV

Do you have a passion for connecting with people from different cultures? Are you enthusiastic about art, culture, and fostering meaningful conversations? Join our team of volunteers at NGV Language Exchange, a unique opportunity to support international students in their journey of exploring local art and culture while practicing conversational English.

NGV Language Exchange is held at two iconic Gallery sites in the heart of Melbourne:

  • NGV International located at 180 St Kilda Rd, Melbourne
  • The Ian Potter Centre: NGV Australia, situated at Federation Square

As a Conversation Facilitator, you will have the chance to engage with international students and help them navigate the world of art and design from Australia and beyond. Your role involves guiding conversations, encouraging language practice, and creating a welcoming environment for all participants.

No prior art knowledge or experience is required – your passion for learning and connecting is what matters most. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of international students while expanding your own cultural horizons.

Engage in conversations and creative artmaking activities on the following dates

  • Friday 18 August, 3pm – 5pm
  • Friday 17 September, 3pm – 5pm
  • Friday 13 October, 2.30pm – 5pm
  • Friday 10 November, 3pm – 5pm

You have the opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping the NGV Language Exchange, providing international students with a platform to connect, learn, and share experiences. To express your interest or gather further details, please visit our website: NGV Language Exchange Website.

If you’re ready to be a part of this enriching experience, join us as a Conversation Facilitator at NGV Language Exchange. Help us create a welcoming space for international students to connect, learn, and share their stories.

To express your interest or learn more, please reach out to victesol@victesol.vic.edu.au

We look forward to welcoming you to our team!

Please see below ACTA’s response to the Better and Fairer Education System consultation paper.  It is hoped the response will be useful in shaping the forthcoming National School Reform Agreement, which has the potential to turn the tide by including EAL/D learners within fair and equitable school provision.

Download (PDF, 2.42MB)

VCE – New study design in 2024

August 1 from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Online Webinar

Summary

The VCE English/EAL New Study Design 2024 session was attended by people across sectors and was very well received. Kellie Heintz provided an extremely detailed presentation moving through each outcome for Units 3 and 4, highlighting the differences between the old and new curriculum as it is to be implemented in 2024. She offered not only possible resources to support us, and a range of ways to approach some key aspects of outcomes but also a wonderful scope of teacher and student agency in the teaching and learning opportunities, especially in relation to the new Outcome, Creating texts. It is an exciting new Study Design and very much worth watching for ideas and resources not only for VCE but in 7-10 also! A must see for new and experienced English and EAL teachers.

Recording

Resources

Presentation

Download (PDF, 748KB)

Links to Youtube clips for EAL

 Things Fall Apart by Chinua Achebe
Summary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1AoTU2YvOR0

Go, Went, Gone by Jenny Erpenbeck
Overview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIPOx0AzHQk

Flames by Robbie Arnott
Interview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sPEdGitxhLg

We Have always Lived in the Castle by Shirley Jackson
Commentary & analysis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4iO_CT_als

Rainbow’s End by Jane Harrison
Overview
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=judMYrYf3J4

Issue
Open Plan Classrooms
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9fa7wXNA4A