EAL

As we approach the end of 2024, it’s time to reflect on the news and progress the EAL team has made in Semester 2.  

The most exciting news is the addition of Mary Aung, our new Burmese-speaking MEA (Multicultural Education Aide), to the EAL team. Mary brings impressive multilingual skills, extensive learning experience, strong academic records, and a significant role as a social activist for Myanmar, adding immense value to our school community. She has fully embraced her role at Mooroolbark College, working extra hours for Parent-Teacher-Interviews, volunteering for the 50th-Anniversary Day, and participating in the ES consultative 2024 alongside the other MEA, Sarah Awi. Mary is already making a positive impact, dedicating two days a week to support our students in class and facilitating communication with Burmese-speaking families. 

The success of the EAL team during Parent-Teacher Interviews (PTIs) at the end of Term 3 was noteworthy. Recognising the language barriers faced by many parents, along with the challenges of online booking, we proactively reached out to EAL families to book interviews on their behalf and provide interpreters, resulting in more than 40 families booking PTIs through us.  

The partnership between Mooroolbark College and MIC (Migrant Information Centre) has continued to strengthen this year, with youth workers on-site building strong connections with refugee students and offering regular wellbeing consultation appointments. The weekly volleyball club, running in Terms 1-3, gained popularity among our students, fostering teamwork, physical fitness, and social interactions in a fun and inclusive environment. In Term 4, MIC shifted its focus to a Young Women’s Group, where around 15 Year 7 & 8 girls meet every Monday, engaging in kinesthetic activities and focusing on movement, mindfulness, and mental wellbeing. 

Another significant event upcoming for the EAL team is the Year 7 EAL Parent’s Orientation and EAL Re-enrolment on December 12th. Invitations will be sent out in November, and parents will be welcomed with Morning Teas and Afternoon Teas, assisting with enrolment paperwork, CSEF and State School Relief forms, textbooks, school uniforms, device and tech use tutorials, and other preparations for 2024.   

Yi Jiang

EAL COORDINATOR