WELC & International Student Reports

Message from the International Coordinator and WELC Coordinator 

WELC Update

Ms Debby Morgan 

WELC Coordinator

We are half-way through Term 2 and currently have 45 students enrolled in our program. Students are studying in four classes and are working hard to learn English and prepare for mainstream schooling.

Next week, WELC will hold Term 2 Parent Teacher interviews. We have booked in meetings for most families but if you haven’t got an appointment, please contact the school. We encourage all families to attend as this is a great opportunity to speak with teachers and discuss your child’s progress and ways to improve. Students are welcome to attend these meetings, too. We will also provide Progress Reports at these meetings which will outline students’ EAL level and areas to improve.

All WELC students participated in the Westall Secondary Cross Country in Week 4. It was wonderful to see all students trying their best to complete the course. A big congratulations to the Albatool, Sa Kha Dah, Mingze, Mohsen and Ali who all placed on the podium in their age groups. What a wonderful achievement!

In Week 4, WELC students also started swimming lessons at Monash University. These lessons will give them the valuable skills they need to stay safe around water and will be useful their whole life. Students are enjoying getting out of the classroom and learning these new skills.

Over the next few weeks, about fourteen students will prepare to exit our Language Centre. They will do some Transition activities with our Transition Coordinator, Ms Tetoros. On the last day of term we will celebrate their achievements at a Graduation ceremony and invite each student to say a short speech about their time in our language centre.

Westall Secondary College offers many sport clubs, lunchtime activities and music classes. If you are interested in getting your child involved in extracurricular activities, please contact the school for more information.

WELC Coordinator – Miss Debby Morgan

WELC Art Elective

Our Art students recently explored the dynamic relationships between lines, shapes, and vibrant colours to produce a series of striking Optical Art and 3D drawings. These impressive works are currently on display in A Block, located directly in front of the WELC staffroom.

International Student Program 

Homestay Training Night

 5 May

Earlier this term, we held our annual Homestay Training Night for all homestay families. As part of our compulsory homestay program requirements, the evening focused on strengthening our shared commitment to student safety, wellbeing, and support.

During the session, we unpacked the updated Homestay Agreement and worked together to customise household rules for each homestay family. We also shared insights from our Safe and Sound homestay wellbeing workshops, including students’ feedback and survey results about their homestay experiences.

We were very pleased with the strong turnout and engagement from our homestay community. It was wonderful to see families come together to support our international students and help create safe, welcoming, and positive home environments for them while studying abroad.

April Birthday Celebration

In April, we also celebrated students with birthdays during the month with a special birthday gathering. Students were invited to bring two guests to join the celebration, enjoy delicious food, and share an important milestone together away from home.

The event was filled with laughter, conversation, and a strong sense of community. These celebrations are a meaningful way for students to connect with friends, feel supported, and create happy memories during their time in Australia.

Holiday Planning Reminder

Please note that holiday plan submissions are now closed. As usual, all homestay providers are required to complete the necessary forms to confirm arrangements. Thank you for your ongoing support in ensuring student safety during the holiday period.

International students are required to attend school for the full term, which means you cannot leave early or return late. Please plan carefully and submit your travel details to the school for approval before finalising any bookings.

If you have any questions or require further information, please feel free to contact us.

Kind regards,

International Student Program Team Westall Secondary College

Ms Summer Bao

International Coordinator