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ACTBEA Submission on the Future or Education in the ACT
In response to the ACT government’s call for community input into their deliberations on the Future of Education, the ACT Bilingual Education Alliance has made a detailed submission highlighting the importance of languages and languages education. The submission addressed three of the themes that have emerged from the public conversation to date: 'Learning for the Future', 'Inclusion', and 'Individualised Learning'. The key ideas underpinning ACTBEA's discussion, recommendations and practical suggestions for action in the submission are that:
- Learning languages has great educational value for all students and should be given higher priority in ACT schools
- The skills of bilingual students should be fully acknowledged and better utilised in the classroom
- Community Language Schools are a great potential asset that need to be further supported and developed
- The skills, learning styles, and educational needs of CALD students need to be explicitly addressed in relation to the 'Inclusion' and 'Individualised Learning' themes.
A new multilingual resource for bilingual families
'Helping your child learn English' a new video developed in NSW that emphasises the importance of developing the home language for young children prior to school. Available in 5 languages: Arabic, Bengali, Chinese, Nepali and English. The video was produced in response to the findings from the 2012 and 2015 Australian Early Development Census which identified that there was a need to promote consistent key messages to service providers and families to improve language and communication development in bilingual children prior to school. This multilingual resource aims to help parents make the most of this very important stage of their child’s life.
- Downloadable from the SESLHD channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/SESLHD.
Canberra languages discussed in the ACT Assembly
On September 15 2017, there was much discussion in the ACT Legislative Assembly about the importance of languages and language learning. All political parties supported the following:
The Assembly calls on the ACT government to observe International Mother Language Day in the ACT to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by the people around the world, especially those in Canberra, through:
The Assembly calls on the ACT government to observe International Mother Language Day in the ACT to promote the preservation and protection of all languages used by the people around the world, especially those in Canberra, through:
- establishing collections and displays, sometimes called an “Ekushey Corner”, at ACT Libraries to promote and protect mother languages;
- promoting the active participation, revitalisation and maintenance of local Indigenous languages;
- exploring options to support the construction of a monument in Canberra dedicated to the mother languages of Australians;
- continuing the ACT Heritage Library’s collection of oral history as a means of preserving the multi-lingual inheritance of the ACT; and
- supporting second language instruction in schools.
SNIPPETS FOR BILINGUAL FAMILIES 2017 Issue 3
Contents
- German-with-kids internet resources
- Bilingual Avenue
- Seminar: Raising Children in More than One Language Melbourne November 2017
- "Should I pretend not to understand?"
- On the road again
Celebration of the Portuguese language
- 5 May 2017, 12.30pm - 2pm
- Nye Hughes Room, ANU Centre for European Studies, 1 Liversidge Street [Building 67C]
RSVP required by 1 May to anclas@anu.edu.au
2017 World's Biggest Playgroup - Old Parliament House, Canberra, Wednesday 29 March 2017
For details: 2017 World's Biggest Playgroup
SNIPPETS FOR BILINGUAL FAMILIES 2017 Issue 1
An occasional electronic publication produced by Dr Susanne Dopke, a Melbourne based speech pathologist and consultant who assists professionals working with bilingual clients as well as families who wish to raise their children bilingually. Click HERE for copy. This publication is free to all who are interested. Contact Susanne to join the mailing list.
ELLA Trial – Early Learning Languages Australia 2017
Applications are open for all Australian preschool services to participate in the 2017 ELLA Program.
ELLA is a fun, digital, play-based language learning program for preschool-aged children. Children are able to learn a language through apps called 'The Polyglots' used on tablet devices. In 2017, preschools may choose from Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or Spanish. Each preschool service will need to provide devices (tablets) and will be supported by a liaison officer, language and culture overviews, Educator App and Family App.
Fpr more information: www.ella.edu.au or https://www.education.gov.au/early-learning-languages-australia
Please encourage your preschool to submit an application before 26 February 2017.
ELLA is a fun, digital, play-based language learning program for preschool-aged children. Children are able to learn a language through apps called 'The Polyglots' used on tablet devices. In 2017, preschools may choose from Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese or Spanish. Each preschool service will need to provide devices (tablets) and will be supported by a liaison officer, language and culture overviews, Educator App and Family App.
Fpr more information: www.ella.edu.au or https://www.education.gov.au/early-learning-languages-australia
Please encourage your preschool to submit an application before 26 February 2017.
Promoting languages at the Multicultural Festival in Canberra February 2017
ACTBEA will have a languages information stall at the Multicultural Festival in Canberra City
To download a map of the Festival footprint and location of our stall CLICK HERE
Note: ACTBEA gratefully acknowledges the support of the ACT Government’s 2016-17 Participation (Multicultural) Grants Program) for funding its activities at the festival.
- WHEN? Sunday 19 February 2017, 10.30am-4.30pm.
- WHERE? Stall G32 in Civic Square
To download a map of the Festival footprint and location of our stall CLICK HERE
Note: ACTBEA gratefully acknowledges the support of the ACT Government’s 2016-17 Participation (Multicultural) Grants Program) for funding its activities at the festival.
Call for Markers & Assessors (Qualifying and Placement Tests)
Fortis Consulting has been asked by a Government Agency to put forward a number of language instructors to conduct marking of Language Proficiency Tests known as Qualifying (Q) & Placement (P) tests commencing November 2016 and concluding in November 2017. The languages being sought are:
- Arabic, Cantonese, Dutch, French, Indonesian, German. Hindi, Japanese, Javanese, Mandarin, Punjabi, Russian,Spanish and Sundanese
- Positon: Marking and Assessment of Qualifying & Placement Tests – intermediate, high and advanced levels
- Period of engagement: November 2016 – November 2017
- Location: Remotely – Wi-Fi Connection, scanner and email access is required
- Time Frame to complete markings: One (1) week period upon receipt from Fortis Consulting
- Rate: $45 p/hr inclusive of super
ACTBEA Submission to the Review of the ACT Languages Policy
For a copy of the ACTBEA submission to assist the review process CLICK HERE. Our comments were reported on at the two public forums in August and formed part of the background for forum discussions.
Your chance to take part in the Review of the ACT Languages Policy
The Community Participation Group (CPG) of the ACT Community Services Directorate is calling for community input to assist with the review of the ACT Government’s Language Policy (Many Voices: The ACT languages policy 2012-2016).
To submit written comments on the aims and implementation of the current policy, plus ideas for future directions, please use the template developed by the CPG (download HERE). You will see that the template covers 5 key areas of the policy:
Community responses, plus responses from a similar template sent to ACT Government Directorates, will be reported on at two public forums:
Attendance is free, and refreshments will be available
To register for one of the forums (RSVP by Friday 5 August), please contact Lindsay Burge, Senior Policy and Projects Officer, CPG at Lindsay.Burge@act.gov.au or Mandy Scott at languagesact@gmail.com.
A full copy of the policy is available at http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/multicultural/publications/amended-act-languages-policy
To submit written comments on the aims and implementation of the current policy, plus ideas for future directions, please use the template developed by the CPG (download HERE). You will see that the template covers 5 key areas of the policy:
- English as the National Language,
- Language Services,
- Learning other Languages,
- Languages and Economic Benefit and
- Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Languages.
- list your own activities, whether assisted by government or other organisations/groups
- comment on the policy's aims and government implementation
- suggest new ideas or ways to strengthen the policy
Community responses, plus responses from a similar template sent to ACT Government Directorates, will be reported on at two public forums:
- Tuesday 9 August 6.30-8.30pm, Function Room, 2nd Floor, Theo Notaras Multicultural Centre and
- Saturday 13 August 1.30-4pm, Room 121 on the lower level of the Baldessin Precinct Building (Building 110) at ANU. Please enter by door on Ellery Crescent – see MAP
Attendance is free, and refreshments will be available
To register for one of the forums (RSVP by Friday 5 August), please contact Lindsay Burge, Senior Policy and Projects Officer, CPG at Lindsay.Burge@act.gov.au or Mandy Scott at languagesact@gmail.com.
A full copy of the policy is available at http://www.communityservices.act.gov.au/multicultural/publications/amended-act-languages-policy
Snippets for bilingual families
In the latest issue, Dr Susanne Döpke, answers a question sent to her by a parent who attended her seminar on raising children in more than one language organised by ACTBEA at the ANU in April. For a copy of the issue CLICK HERE.
To join the mailing list for Dr Döpke's free irregular electronic publication, which disseminates information about issues of interest and importance to bilingual families and professionals working with such families, see http://www.bilingualoptions.com.au/consBILSNIP.htm
To join the mailing list for Dr Döpke's free irregular electronic publication, which disseminates information about issues of interest and importance to bilingual families and professionals working with such families, see http://www.bilingualoptions.com.au/consBILSNIP.htm
ACT MANDARIN BLUEPRINT
The ACT Mandarin Blueprint, which aims to enhance the learning of Mandarin and promote understanding of Chinese culture in ACT schools, was officially released on 15 October 2015. The blueprint gives an overview of the current initiatives and future plans of the many organisations in the ACT involved in the teaching and promotion of Mandarin and Chinese culture.
A list of the recipients of ACT Government Mandarin Culture and Language Grants announced as a part of the Blueprint - together with a brief description of their projects - can also be seen at http://www.det.act.gov.au/teaching_and_learning/mandarin-blueprint. The 21 recipients include mainstream and community language schools, other community organisations, and the ANU.
A list of the recipients of ACT Government Mandarin Culture and Language Grants announced as a part of the Blueprint - together with a brief description of their projects - can also be seen at http://www.det.act.gov.au/teaching_and_learning/mandarin-blueprint. The 21 recipients include mainstream and community language schools, other community organisations, and the ANU.
Japanese kids book club: Kangaroo Pocket Bunko
A new club which aims to help develop bilingual ability for children aged between 0 and 12 and to help develop and enhance an understanding of both Japanese and Australian cultures by reading books, playing games, and various other activities. The club started in June 2015, has a membership of 13 families with 23 children and owns over 400 Japanese kids books.
Activities include lending books and story time PLUS games, crafts, and other activities which relate to "today's book" for story time. Current meeting venue is the Mosaic Church in Page.
For more information see the FaceBook page
Activities include lending books and story time PLUS games, crafts, and other activities which relate to "today's book" for story time. Current meeting venue is the Mosaic Church in Page.
For more information see the FaceBook page
ACTBEA at the Multicultural Festival Saturday 14 February and Sunday 15 February 2015
ACTBEA is helping to organise free fun activities in various languages at the Children's Sanctuary at the Festival in Civic from 11am to 4.45pm on Sat 14 February, and will have a Languages Information Stall on Sun 15 February from 11am-4.30pm. For location of both, click on MAP here.
Come and enjoy the sounds, sights and tastes of multicultural Canberra at this annual festival and meet some of our members and others interested in supporting and promoting languages. For more information about the festival visit http://multiculturalfestival.com.au/
NOTE: ACTBEA gratefully acknowledges the support of the ACT Government’s 2013-14 Participation (Multicultural) Grants Program) for funding our activities at the festival.
Come and enjoy the sounds, sights and tastes of multicultural Canberra at this annual festival and meet some of our members and others interested in supporting and promoting languages. For more information about the festival visit http://multiculturalfestival.com.au/
NOTE: ACTBEA gratefully acknowledges the support of the ACT Government’s 2013-14 Participation (Multicultural) Grants Program) for funding our activities at the festival.
Incentives for studying languages at university
A number of universities in Australia offer incentives for students who have completed Year 12 studies in a language. For details of the range of incentives offered by the Group of Eight universities, including the ANU, in Canberra, CLICK HERE
Sharing Story and Culture Project
The Lu Rees Archives, housed at the University of Canberra, enhances the appreciation of Australian children's literature. The archives include over 25,000 books, with more than 3000 in overseas translations in 53 languages, over 420 research files, and significant collections of authors', illustrators' and publishers' papers, manuscripts and artwork. These resources are not available for loan, but visitors are welcome to view them during opening hours.
The Archives received a Multicultural Grant from the ACT Government for 2015 to promote reading and enjoyment of Australian children's books which have been translated into Simplified Chinese. Books will be selected by the teachers in the Australian School of Contemporary Chinese (ASCC), the Federation of Chinese Community of Canberra (FCCI), the Queanbeyan Community Chinese Language School and those knowledgeable about Australian children's literature. After their purchase, the books will be catalogued, annotated, and listed on the schools' and Lu Rees Archives websites. The Chinese schools will determine the location of the book collection and manage their lending to children and their families as well as using the books for educational purposes in the classroom.
The Archives received a Multicultural Grant from the ACT Government for 2015 to promote reading and enjoyment of Australian children's books which have been translated into Simplified Chinese. Books will be selected by the teachers in the Australian School of Contemporary Chinese (ASCC), the Federation of Chinese Community of Canberra (FCCI), the Queanbeyan Community Chinese Language School and those knowledgeable about Australian children's literature. After their purchase, the books will be catalogued, annotated, and listed on the schools' and Lu Rees Archives websites. The Chinese schools will determine the location of the book collection and manage their lending to children and their families as well as using the books for educational purposes in the classroom.
Talks for parents and schools
The ACT Bilingual Education Alliance (ACTBEA) offers free talks to promote the benefits of maintaining heritage languages, mother tongues and learning additional languages.
Talks can be tailored to particular audiences, for example parents, students and/or teachers. Presenters are ACTBEA members and include experienced language teachers and specialists in bilingualism and language education.
If you are interested in having a talk at your school or parent or community group please contact canberrabilingual@gmail.com or phone Mandy on 0408 089 235.
Talks can be tailored to particular audiences, for example parents, students and/or teachers. Presenters are ACTBEA members and include experienced language teachers and specialists in bilingualism and language education.
If you are interested in having a talk at your school or parent or community group please contact canberrabilingual@gmail.com or phone Mandy on 0408 089 235.
Mandarin for Fun group expands its programs
From its beginnings in 2009 as a playgroup specifically designed to help parents and kids from both Chinese or non-Chinese backgrounds to learn Mandarin in a fun way, to meet demand the group now offers several types of programs - see details below.
For more details contact Lucia Lu on 0410 981 788 or email mandarinforfun@gmail.com
To support and encourage bilingualism in the Canberra region, Mandarin for Fun also hosts a Mandarin Language program from 6.30pm to 7pm on Friday evenings. The program showcases the Mandarin for Fun program on air to make the learning curve easier for families. See http://mandarinforfun.weebly.com/ and http://learningmandarin.weebly.com/weekly-radio-show.html for more details.
- Playgroup: Crafts, rhymes, songs and exercise. For families from Chinese and non-Chinese backgrounds with kids aged from 0 to 5 years old.Tuesdays, 3:20pm – 4:50pm at West Belconnen Child and Family Centre, Kippax.
- Family Immersion Program Aimed at parents and kids from non-Chinese backgrounds. Taught in a small group environment via various fun methods. Suitable for kids aged 8 months to 5 years old. Two groups: Tuesdays, 10 am – 10.45am or 11.15am – 12pm, both at Handcock Crescent, Macgregor
- Kids after-school Mandarin Class For over 5 year-olds with no or little Chinese background. They will be exposed to formal learning by using textbooks with some homework. Tuesdays, 3.45pm – 4.30 pm at West Belconnen Child and Family Centre, Kippax
- Mandarin Immersion Program (Kids only) For over 3 year-olds with no or little Chinese background. Taught in a home based environment, children will learn basic, commonly-used Mandarin conversation. Thursdays, 10:00am – 2:00pm at Handcock Crescent, Macgregor and/or Fridays 10:00am –2:00pm at Forde, Gungahlin
For more details contact Lucia Lu on 0410 981 788 or email mandarinforfun@gmail.com
To support and encourage bilingualism in the Canberra region, Mandarin for Fun also hosts a Mandarin Language program from 6.30pm to 7pm on Friday evenings. The program showcases the Mandarin for Fun program on air to make the learning curve easier for families. See http://mandarinforfun.weebly.com/ and http://learningmandarin.weebly.com/weekly-radio-show.html for more details.
BILINGUAL PROGAMS IN THE NEWS
The Chronicle, 25 February 2014: Upgrade of Yarralumla Primary School’s building, including a
state-of-the-art video conferencing facility, will enhance the Italian-English
bilingual program at the school. CLICK
HERE FOR STORY_
The Chronicle, 25 Feb 2014: New building for St Nicholas Preschool and childcare centre in Yarralumla thanks to support from the Hellenic Club in Woden will help promote the Greek language and culture. CLICK HERE FOR STORY
The Chronicle, 1 April 2014: Promotion of reading in other languages as part of the Let’s Read program at the Child and Family Centre in Tuggeranong to help develop children’s literacy thanks to a partnership between the Smith Family and Communities@work. CLICK HERE FOR STORY
The Chronicle, 25 Feb 2014: New building for St Nicholas Preschool and childcare centre in Yarralumla thanks to support from the Hellenic Club in Woden will help promote the Greek language and culture. CLICK HERE FOR STORY
The Chronicle, 1 April 2014: Promotion of reading in other languages as part of the Let’s Read program at the Child and Family Centre in Tuggeranong to help develop children’s literacy thanks to a partnership between the Smith Family and Communities@work. CLICK HERE FOR STORY
German programs for children in 2014
1. Playgroups (for children and their parent/carer).
Playschool is like preschool and is for 3-5 year olds. Two programs from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Turner Scout Hall. Children may attend 2 to 4 days per week:
- Spiel und Spagat, a new south-side group for 0-3 year olds on Tuesday afternoons
- Spiel und Sproessling for 0-3 year olds on Monday mornings
- Spiel und Spass for 0-5 year olds on Wednesday mornings 9.30-11.30am at the Turner Scout Hall
- Spiel und Spurfinder for 5.5 year olds on Monday evenings 6-7pm at the Turner Scout Hall
Playschool is like preschool and is for 3-5 year olds. Two programs from 9.30am to 3.30pm at the Turner Scout Hall. Children may attend 2 to 4 days per week:
- Immersion (Monday/Tuesday), basic understanding of German required
- Bilingual (Thursday/Friday), no previous German required.
- Musik: A music program, Tuesdays, 3.30 to 5pm at the Turner Scout Hall. Geared at 3-5 year olds, but 6-10 year olds are welcome.
- German Language School: more formal German lessons for children on Mondays after school. For more information see http://www.actgermanschool.org.au/childrens-division
- Joeys, Spurfinder and siblings: for boys and girls 5.5 to 8 years, Mondays 6-7pm at the Turner Scout Hall. Older siblings may also attend if they can't make Tuesdays.
- Cubs, Scouts and Venturers: For boys and girls aged 8 years and up, Tuesdays 6-7.30pm at the Turner Scout Hall.
Two open days during ACT Children's Week
1.Southside Filipino Language Class, Sunday 20 October, 2-4pm, Erindale Neighbourhood Centre, Wanniassa
Learn some simple Tagalog greetings and words, games, and puppet making. Exhibiton and displays and Filipno snacks. Please RSVP before 16 Oct for catering purposes：Sheila 0411 243 487, Alma on 0439 594 826 or email Canberra.filipino@gmail.com
2. Mandarin for Fun playgroup, Tuesday, 22 October, 3.20 4.50pm, West Belconnen Child and Family Centre, Holt.
Performances by children and parents, games, craft, singing, dancing and healthy afternoon tea. All welcome with Chinese or non-Chinese background.
Please advise interest in attending (for catering purposes) by Friday, 18 October: mandarinforfun@gmail.com or 0410 981 788. For more information CLICK HERE
NOTE: Both the above proudly acknowledge the support they have received through grants from the ACT Children’s Week committee. For more information about ACT Children’s Week and a full program of events, CLICK HERE
Chinese Camp 30 September to 11 October 2013
A 10 day camp (daily attendance) at UC Senior Secondary College, Lake Ginninderra. A fun holiday program for school-aged students, especially those of Chinese heritage.
Activities will include Chinese Kung Fu, Dough Figurines, Clay Sculpture, Egg Decorating, Chinese knots, Calligraphy, Traditional Chinese Painting, Peking Opera Styles of Makeup, Paper-cut, Gong & Drum, Singing and Dancing.
Organised by the Australian School of Contemporary Chinese, the camp is supported by the China Overseas Exchange Association (Qiaoban), Shandong Overseas Exchange Association and the Chinese Embassy in Australia.
For more details, see poster and registration form or contact ASCC on 6176 0528 or ascc@trilong.com.au
Activities will include Chinese Kung Fu, Dough Figurines, Clay Sculpture, Egg Decorating, Chinese knots, Calligraphy, Traditional Chinese Painting, Peking Opera Styles of Makeup, Paper-cut, Gong & Drum, Singing and Dancing.
Organised by the Australian School of Contemporary Chinese, the camp is supported by the China Overseas Exchange Association (Qiaoban), Shandong Overseas Exchange Association and the Chinese Embassy in Australia.
For more details, see poster and registration form or contact ASCC on 6176 0528 or ascc@trilong.com.au
Alliance Française de Canberra School holiday program.
Another Way to learn & have fun with French! Monday 15 - Friday 19 April, 9.30am - 12.30pm
Open to all levels and ages from Pre-kindy (3-4 yrs old), Kindy (5-6), Children (7-11) to teens (12-17).
Price $215, Morning Tea Included. Bookings essential
For more details: phone 6247 5027, email enquiries@afcanberra.com.au or visit www.afcanberra.com.au
Open to all levels and ages from Pre-kindy (3-4 yrs old), Kindy (5-6), Children (7-11) to teens (12-17).
Price $215, Morning Tea Included. Bookings essential
For more details: phone 6247 5027, email enquiries@afcanberra.com.au or visit www.afcanberra.com.au
NEW Monday afternoon German classes for children
These will be held from 4:00 until 5:30pm (supervision available from 3:30 until 4pm) at the Scout Hall in Turner. Classes are for 4 to 7 year olds, though 8-10 year olds will be accepted on a case-by-case basis. Fee for Term 1 (8 weeks) in 2013 is $160.
CURRICULUM: The program will start with all the children working with "Hans Hase" (an educational puppet program from the Goethe Institute). Afterwards, the class will be split: the younger children and German beginner children will continue with Hans Hase, and the older children and fluent children will work on reading and writing in German.
For more information and to enrol, see Monday class enrolment page.
Term 1 at the Alliance Française Canberra 2 February - 13 April 2013
Classes for Young learners (Pre-kindy to Year 12)
From Monday to Thursday at all levels In the afternoons from 4.15pm to 5.45pm
Classes for Adults from Monday to Saturday at all levels. Daytime classes and evening classes
For more info & timetable visit: www.afcanberra.com.au or contact: 6247 5027 or enquiries@afcanberra.com.au.
From Monday to Thursday at all levels In the afternoons from 4.15pm to 5.45pm
Classes for Adults from Monday to Saturday at all levels. Daytime classes and evening classes
For more info & timetable visit: www.afcanberra.com.au or contact: 6247 5027 or enquiries@afcanberra.com.au.
New Mandarin Chinese Language School opening in Canberra 2013
For adults and children interested in learning Mandarin Chinese. Organised by the Taiwanese Association of Canberra and taught by experienced Chinese Language Teachers.
Teaching Materials: “Live Interactive Chinese” and textbooks approved by Overseas Compatriot Affair Commission, supplemented by textbooks published in Hong Kong and China. The course uses Taiwan Phonetic System (ㄅㄆㄇㄈ) and Roman Phonetic System, and includes Mandarin conversation, bilingual Mandarin-English learning, introduction to Chinese history and culture, introduction to Taiwan local culture.
When? Saturday 10am-12 noon during ACT school terms, including a 15 minute recess. Starting Date: Saturday 8 February 2013
Where? 30 Chauvel Circle, Chapman ACT 2611 (Parking available)
Tuition Fees: $100 (member); $120 (non-member) per school per term, plus $10 for teaching materials each term. There is a $10 discount for each subsequent family member enrolled
Volunteers most welcome to assist
For more information and to enrol (by 31 January please), email tacamail.act@gmail.com
Spielwelt German programs for children in 2013
Two German playgroups (for children and their parent/carer)
1. NEW group! Spiel und Sproessling for 0-2 year olds. Tuesday mornings, Ainslie Scout Hall, 9:45-11:45am.
2. Spiel und Spass for 0-5 year olds. Wednesday mornings (NEW day!), Turner Scout Hall, 10am - 12noon.
Two classes at the German Australian Playschool (GAP):
Playschool is like preschool with caring, qualified native-German speaking staff guiding a class of 3-5 year old children through a fun play-based educational program. GAP is from 9:30am to 3:30pm, at the Turner Scout Hall. In 2013, two classes are offered. Children may attend 2 to 4 days per week.
1. Immersion (Monday/Tuesday) class: Playschool in German only. A basic understanding of German required.
2. Bilingual (Thursday/Friday) class: Playschool in German and English. No previous German required. Open to fluent and beginners, as well as German children wanting to learn English.
Two after school programs:
1. Musik / Lied und Wort: A delightful music program taught by GAP head teacher, Dr Cristina Robins-Figl. Tuesdays, 3:30 to 5pm, Turner Scout Hall. Geared at 3-5 year olds, but 6-10 year olds have also enjoyed this program in the past, and are welcome.
2. German Language School: a possible new offering if families are interested in more formal German language lessons. Class would be held after school at the Turner Scout Hall, 3:30 to 5pm, probably on Mondays, and will cater for 3-10 year olds. This program will run if there is sufficient interest.
Two Pfadfinder scout group nights:
1. Joeys, Spurfinder and siblings: For boys and girls aged 5.5 to 8 years, Mondays, Turner Scout Hall, 6-7pm. Older siblings may also attend if they can't make Tuesdays.
2. Cubs, Scouts and Venturers: For boys and girls aged 8 years and up, Tuesdays, Turner Scout Hall, 6-7:30pm.
Pfadfinder must be able to speak/understand German. The group is very family-oriented, and has a LOT of fun with an incredibly exciting program run by its native German-speaking volunteer leaders.
For more information, see www.spielwelt.org.au
Many Voices - ACT Language Policy for 2012-2016
This long awaited and anticipated government policy appeared
without much fanfare on the website of the ACT Office of Multicultural Affairs
just before the ACT government went into caretaker mode in the lead up to the
ACT election.
The policy makes a number of commitments to promote, enhance and safeguard the language skills in the ACT community. These include to:
While short on detail about funding or how implementation of the policy will be assessed, the policy is a clear statement of the ACT government’s commitment to developing the language skills of all Canberrans and valuing the vital role of all languages in personal, family, community and economic life.
We hope that whatever government comes to power after 20 October accepts the main thrust of the policy and acts upon it.
Meanwhile, if you think the actions of the ACT government and its agencies do not measure up to the rhetoric in the policy, why not make your views known to the agencies concerned and Office of Multicultural Affairs (email: nic.manikis@act.gov.au).
You are also welcome to share ideas about the policy on our Share News and Views page. ACTBEA is happy to raise issues with the Office of Multicultural Affairs and relevant ACT politicians and ministers.
Individuals and groups might also consider using the policy as a basis for applying for government funding and support!
The policy makes a number of commitments to promote, enhance and safeguard the language skills in the ACT community. These include to:
- work with the ACT languages sector to promote the benefits of languages education and influence positive attitudes towards languages education in our community
- encourage schools to be aware of and value language learning outside the school – in the home, the community and in after-hours programs
- encourage all Canberrans to learn languages in addition to English
- make every effort to retain, preserve and use Australian languages in the ACT region
- provide interpreting and translation services and use plain English to ensure access and equity to government programs and services
- make English language programs readily available to Canberrans who need to improve their English proficiency (oral and/or literate).
While short on detail about funding or how implementation of the policy will be assessed, the policy is a clear statement of the ACT government’s commitment to developing the language skills of all Canberrans and valuing the vital role of all languages in personal, family, community and economic life.
We hope that whatever government comes to power after 20 October accepts the main thrust of the policy and acts upon it.
Meanwhile, if you think the actions of the ACT government and its agencies do not measure up to the rhetoric in the policy, why not make your views known to the agencies concerned and Office of Multicultural Affairs (email: nic.manikis@act.gov.au).
You are also welcome to share ideas about the policy on our Share News and Views page. ACTBEA is happy to raise issues with the Office of Multicultural Affairs and relevant ACT politicians and ministers.
Individuals and groups might also consider using the policy as a basis for applying for government funding and support!
| act_languages_policy_revised.pdf |
Chinese Rainbow Scout Group
Scout Hall in Tooms Place, Lyons, near Woden Town Centre
A new group offering scouting activities, speaking in both Chinese and English. Young people can enjoy an outdoor skills adventure and gain new skills and knowledge in a safe, encouraging and challenging environment.
Young people aged 14-26 can join now; 6-13 year-olds may be able to join in 2014.
Venturers (14-17 years) meet on Saturdays 2-4pm, Rovers (18-26 years) meet on Thursdays 2-4pm
The group is also looking for adults who would like to become a Scout Leader or just like to help out.
To read about Scouts in the ACT, see www.act.scouts.asn.au
For more information email jo.guth@hotmail.com or telephone Joanne on 0452 224 228
A new group offering scouting activities, speaking in both Chinese and English. Young people can enjoy an outdoor skills adventure and gain new skills and knowledge in a safe, encouraging and challenging environment.
Young people aged 14-26 can join now; 6-13 year-olds may be able to join in 2014.
Venturers (14-17 years) meet on Saturdays 2-4pm, Rovers (18-26 years) meet on Thursdays 2-4pm
The group is also looking for adults who would like to become a Scout Leader or just like to help out.
To read about Scouts in the ACT, see www.act.scouts.asn.au
For more information email jo.guth@hotmail.com or telephone Joanne on 0452 224 228
| new_chinese_scout_group_for_the_act.pdf |
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ACTBEA has become a partner in the National Year of Reading and a member of the local steering committee.
We look forward to promoting reading in English and the many other languages used in the Canberra region. Reading, or being read to, in one’s home language – whatever it may be - plays a valuable role in the development of children's cognitive, language and literacy skills. |
Alliance Francaise Pâtisserie Workshop, Arts and Conversation!
French Workshop Winter program for Children: a fun way to learn French! Children will enjoy their holidays in a French speaking environment and come back home with delicious recipes and artworks!
Monday 9 July & Tuesday 10 July, 9am – 12pm, for 5 to 6 years old
Wednesday 11 July & Thursday 12 July, 9am – 12pm for 7 to 10 years old
Conversation class for teens
Monday 9 July, Tuesday 10 July and Wednesday 11 July, 2pm-4pm
For more details contact (02) 6247 5027, enquiries@afcanberra.com.au or visit
www.afcanberra.com.au
Monday 9 July & Tuesday 10 July, 9am – 12pm, for 5 to 6 years old
Wednesday 11 July & Thursday 12 July, 9am – 12pm for 7 to 10 years old
Conversation class for teens
Monday 9 July, Tuesday 10 July and Wednesday 11 July, 2pm-4pm
For more details contact (02) 6247 5027, enquiries@afcanberra.com.au or visit
www.afcanberra.com.au
'Fun Languages for Little Linguists' now running French Clubs for Children in Canberra
1. Weekly classes in various locations: preschool to 10 years old.
2. French Holiday Program: “ Les artistes en herbe”
17 and 18 of July, Kingston, ACT. For children 6 to 10 years old. Practice your French while learning to paint funny pictures like René Magritte (a Belgian painter) Fee $100.
Booking required before the 6th of July. CLICK HERE for more details
3. French Camp: 3-5 October 2012 in Berry, NSW.
For children 9 to 12 yrs old who want to have fun while improving and practicing their French through a 3 days immersion program, including outdoor/indoor activities, cooking, bushwalking and swimming. Fee: $400
Booking required by 31 August. CLICK HERE for more details
For more details about any of the above, contact Elodie on 0466 544 705 (mobile) or email elodie.bouvier@lcfclubs.com.au
2. French Holiday Program: “ Les artistes en herbe”
17 and 18 of July, Kingston, ACT. For children 6 to 10 years old. Practice your French while learning to paint funny pictures like René Magritte (a Belgian painter) Fee $100.
Booking required before the 6th of July. CLICK HERE for more details
3. French Camp: 3-5 October 2012 in Berry, NSW.
For children 9 to 12 yrs old who want to have fun while improving and practicing their French through a 3 days immersion program, including outdoor/indoor activities, cooking, bushwalking and swimming. Fee: $400
Booking required by 31 August. CLICK HERE for more details
For more details about any of the above, contact Elodie on 0466 544 705 (mobile) or email elodie.bouvier@lcfclubs.com.au
Mandarin for Fun
A language learning playgroup open to people from any background as it aims to teach both children (from 18 months to 5 years old) and carers so that they can go home and practice together. Mandarin for Fun uses different fun ways to teach so that everyone is learning without knowing. The objective is to help children build up a solid Mandarin language foundation and keep their interest up for further second language development.
There are two programs: one meets every Tuesday afternoon at Holt and the other meets fortnightly at Cook on Saturday morning. A small fee applies and booking is essential as numbers are limited. Please register your interest through mandarinforfun@gmail.com or phone Lucia on 0410 981 788.
There are also plans for a Mandarin Immersion Program every Tuesday from 10am – 2pm. Contact Lucia for more details.
This project was made possible with the support of the ACT Government's Multicultural Language Grants Program.
The ACT Dads' Playgroup
The group meets on the first Saturday of every month from 11am to 3pm. For more details of the group’s aims and activities, see ‘Being a mum is a not a full time job’, which was written by Justin Murray, who co-founded the group with Casten Makochekanwa. Both of them are raising their children in more than one language.
In the article, Justin explains that although the original intent of the group was to give mums a break, it has developed into much more than that. Bonds between Dad and child, Dad and Dad, child and child have been enhanced and grown. In addition, the group has offered the opportunity for open discussion about the challenges of the transition from husband to Dad.
Whilst multilingualism is not the focus of this group, languages other than English are used, and the majority of dads are multilingual. New members are welcome.
For more information, email actdadsgroup@gmail.com or visit the group on Facebook
NOTE: ‘Being a mum is a not a full time job’ was written in connection with an interview for a special issue for dads of Totline, the National Playgroup Magazine. A copy of this Issue 3, 2011, is currently available online (CLICK HERE for a copy).
In the article, Justin explains that although the original intent of the group was to give mums a break, it has developed into much more than that. Bonds between Dad and child, Dad and Dad, child and child have been enhanced and grown. In addition, the group has offered the opportunity for open discussion about the challenges of the transition from husband to Dad.
Whilst multilingualism is not the focus of this group, languages other than English are used, and the majority of dads are multilingual. New members are welcome.
For more information, email actdadsgroup@gmail.com or visit the group on Facebook
NOTE: ‘Being a mum is a not a full time job’ was written in connection with an interview for a special issue for dads of Totline, the National Playgroup Magazine. A copy of this Issue 3, 2011, is currently available online (CLICK HERE for a copy).
| being_a_mum_is_a_not_a_full_time_job.doc.docx |
Calling all trilingual families
A linguist in the UK currently pursuing a doctorate in education is conducting research for a book to help multilingual families bringing children up using three languages. If you are a non-native English speaker who uses English to communicate with your partner she would like to hear from you.
Participants will need to fill out an online survey and be interviewed online about bringing up children using three languages. This is a doctorate research project and not a commercial one. The information you provide will be used for research purposes only and your identity will be protected. Manal is interested in this topic because her family is trilingual.
For more details contact ms.manal@gmail.com
Participants will need to fill out an online survey and be interviewed online about bringing up children using three languages. This is a doctorate research project and not a commercial one. The information you provide will be used for research purposes only and your identity will be protected. Manal is interested in this topic because her family is trilingual.
For more details contact ms.manal@gmail.com
German for children in 2012
a) Playschool : The German Australian Playschool will be operating for 4 DAYS a WEEK from July 2012!!
Enrolments are now open. For details see www.spielwelt.org.au/home/page.php?pid=53
b) Pfadfinder (German-speaking scout group for girls and boys 6 years and up) is set for another fantastic year, and will launch its exciting 2012 program on Monday 6 February at 6pm in the Turner Scout Hall.
For more details, visit www.spielwelt.org.au/home/page.php?pid=55
Filipino language school has expanded to the southside!!
Classes run by Learning Filipino Together (LFT) now available on Saturdays in Palmerston and Sundays in Erindale: Term 3 will start on the 31st of July 2011. See flyer for more information.
| learning_filipino_flyer.pdf |
"Turnen und Tanzen" (tumbling/gym/sports and dancing) for children 3-5 years old
An exciting new afternoon program (Fridays 3:30 to 5pm) for young children beginning 29 July 2011. This program will help children learn German, improve fitness, have fun and make friends, improve their balance, agility and coordination.
The program, organised by the Spielwelt German Parents Association Inc, will be run at the Scout Hall on Masson Street in Turner by Swiss teacher, Karin Klaus, who is a children's services qualified native German speaker, with Montessori and childcare experience. Turnen und Tanzen accepts children of all German comprehension levels, from total beginners to fluent children.
This program is being run by popular demand following the success of Spielwelt's "Musik: Lied und Wort" on Thursday afternoons, with Dr Cristina Robins-Figl.
Cost is $20 per week for a term of 10 weeks; or $25 for one-off sessions.
Email spielwelt@homemail.com.au for an enrolment form or more information.
The program, organised by the Spielwelt German Parents Association Inc, will be run at the Scout Hall on Masson Street in Turner by Swiss teacher, Karin Klaus, who is a children's services qualified native German speaker, with Montessori and childcare experience. Turnen und Tanzen accepts children of all German comprehension levels, from total beginners to fluent children.
This program is being run by popular demand following the success of Spielwelt's "Musik: Lied und Wort" on Thursday afternoons, with Dr Cristina Robins-Figl.
Cost is $20 per week for a term of 10 weeks; or $25 for one-off sessions.
Email spielwelt@homemail.com.au for an enrolment form or more information.
Recent articles about Chinese - English bilingual childcare in the ACT, May and June 2011
| centre_speaks_right_language_the_chronicle_31_may_2011.pdf |
| chinese_bilingual_centre_for_northside_canberra_weekly_2_june_2011.pdf |
New French Scout Group starting in Canberra in 2011
Les Explorateurs starts in Term 2, 2011 for children 6 years and up! Fantastic scouting program for joeys, cubs and scouts in French.
Thursday evenings at the Turner Scout Hall. Open for enrolments immediately.
Expressions of interest also welcomed from more francophone leaders.
For more information contact the Scout Group Leader, Darren Kriticos on 4gumnuts@gmail.com
2010 ARTICLE ABOUT THE POLISH PLAYGROUP IN CANBERRA
| polish_playgroup_article.doc |
2010 ARTICLES IN THE PRESS ABOUT BILINGUAL EDUCATION IN THE ACT AREA
| chronicle_article_bilingual_proposal_7_sept_2010.pdf |
| learning_adventures_japanese.pdf |
| chronicle_article_indonesian_preschool__14_september_2010.pdf |
| chronicle_article_mandarin_childcare_north_canberra_28_september_2010.pdf |
| chronicle_article_schools_reject_funding__5_oct_2010.pdf |
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