To get ahead in this homogenising world, you better know a sliver of English, and what better place to learn the language than its motherland Britain and erstwhile colonies.
Australia is one of these places, and it has come into its own as host to the world’s most liveable cities. A strong economy and stable government also make Australia a standout among nations that use English as the first language.
In Australia, you receive English education only of the first order.
Unique accreditation framework
Setting Australia apart from all other English-speaking nations is its National ELT Accreditation Scheme (NEAS). It is a system that checks all English Language Teaching (ELT) programs in Australia if they meet exacting national standards.
Thus far, NEAS has accredited over 250 universities; vocational training providers; secondary schools; and private ELT providers in Australia.
As part of NEAS, expatriates in Australia have the option of taking English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS). Under this program, those on student and various other visas can benefit from at least “20 hours of scheduled classes involving face-to-face contact hours of English language instruction.”
Not all English language training providers can offer ELICOS though, as they must follow strict NEAS guidelines first. Since 2011, ELICOS Standards have been made legislative instruments under the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act.
People from around the world have come to Australia to further their English communication skills under ELICOS. Mastery of English makes them more employable in their home countries, if not in Australia and other English-speaking territories. Other ELICOS students are already well-versed in the language but come nonetheless to refine their knowledge.
NEAS, in cooperation with the Australian Department of Immigration and Citizenship, also facilitates the so-called Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP). These are free courses for certain migrants, e.g. those on humanitarian and skilled visas, to learn practical English.
Established in 1948, AMEP exists as a cornerstone of Australia’s scheme to accommodate new settlers as they adjust to the country. Learning functional English is an indispensable step toward long-term settlement in Australia.
AMEP students have the choice of studying in a classroom setting (part or full-time) or not. In the latter option, distance learners can obtain instructions at home, provided they remain in telephone contact with eligible teachers. Distance learners can also arrange for home tutors to personally assist them.
Generally, AMEP students qualify for as much as 510 hours of English tuition, valid for five years after their visa issuance. However, certain migrants, such as those who have endured trauma before migration or enjoyed little to no education, may be allotted an extra 100-400 hours of instruction.
NEAS also supplements the AMEP courses with a program called the Settlement Language Pathways to Employment and Training (SLPET). This is designed to familiarise migrants with typical life in Australia’s places of work. SLPET also individualises the AMEP experience for students by offering a counselling service.
Where else but Australia
At this point, you have understood how hands-on Australia is when it comes to teaching English. The education does not stop there, however. Outside its classrooms, Australia beckons you to immerse yourself in its culture, the best finishing touch you could ever hope for your English learning.