Starting a new life in a different country can be overwhelming. From finding a job to communicating with schools and health providers, everyday tasks become much harder without confidence in English. That’s where English Language Partners steps in, helping migrants, former refugees and asylum seekers build new lives and become part of their local communities.
‘We provide free English classes to former refugees, asylum seekers and migrants who live in Central and West Auckland, helping these new Kiwis acquire the language skills needed to participate confidently in everyday life,’ says Centre Manager Katie Peckitt.
A $20,000 grant from the latest round of the Your West Support Fund has helped English Language Partners continue delivering these free classes. The funding is contributing towards the rental costs of its New Lynn office and classrooms.
Demand for classes continues to grow. This term, English Language Partners is running 30 classes in New Lynn and 68 online and across Central and West Auckland, supporting more than 700 learners. In New Lynn alone, 310 students are enrolled for Term 3. Alongside face-to-face classes, learners can also study online, giving them greater flexibility to fit lessons around work, family and other commitments. A new school holiday programme has also proved popular, helping reduce waiting times for students eager to begin learning.
Building on its language programmes, English Language Partners has recently been appointed by the Ministry of Social Development to deliver the Pathways to Employment service for people from refugee backgrounds. ‘Our new service will help eligible job seekers from refugee backgrounds prepare for and secure full-time employment or study,’ says Katie. Participants receive support with CV preparation, job interviews and work-readiness training, while also being connected with local employers.
‘Refugee background job seekers bring diverse skills, experience and strengths to the New Zealand workforce,’ says Katie. ‘The Pathways to Employment service not only supports these new arrivals but also benefits local employers and the wider economy.’
One learner already seeing the benefits of studying in the English for Work class is West Auckland resident Chaolan. ‘The class is really good for me. I can talk more, and I am a little bit more confident,’ she says.
Thanks to the Your West Support Fund, more migrants, former refugees and asylum seekers will continue gaining the language skills, confidence and employment support they need to build successful new lives and contribute to their West Auckland communities.
Learn more about English Language Partners at englishlanguage.org.nz or follow them on Facebook.
If you or your organisation could use support from The Trusts, find out how to apply at thetrusts.co.nz/our-funds.
