WELC & International Student Report

Message from the WELC Coordinator 

WELC Report

Westall English Language Centre report

We are nearing the midway point of Term 2. We are currently running 4 classes and students are working hard. We remind all students to spend time every night completing homework and revising new words or grammar. As always, if students need any help with homework or classwork, they should contact their teachers. 

Aside from English, Maths and ICT classes, students are studying one of four electives – Cooking, Art, Drama or Sport.  Some photos from these classes are in this newsletter.

In Term 2, twenty students are participating in Swimming lessons at the Doug Ellis Pool at Monash University. Students are enjoying learning basic water safety and swimming techniques. This is an important skill to have in Australia and we are pleased that so many students are attending and developing their swimming skills.

Students who aren’t doing swimming lessons are doing a variety of activities back at school. Students have had fun working as a team to make a Lego set – with each team member doing one specific job. Students have also gone to an introduction session at the Westall Hub Library. This is a wonderful place that students can go to after school and we encourage students to get a membership there and borrow books to read at home. Reading is an excellent way to improve speaking and writing skills so we encourage all students to read as much as possible at home.

Every Monday afternoon (3:30 pm – 4:30 pm) we hold the WELC Revision Club and every Tuesday and Thursday mornings (8:30 am – 9:00 am) we hold the WELC Reading Program. If you would like your child to attend either session, please let us know at school.

At Westall we encourage all students to show the Westall Care Values – Care for Yourself, Care for Others, Care for Your Learning and Care for the Community. Many of our students have demonstrated these values in the last month and have received a certificate from the school to celebrate their actions. We congratulate the following students for demonstrating the Westall Care Values – Asad, Calix, Letong, Ahmad, Tran, Vincent, Mohammad, Ken, Zinat, Terry, Anna, Joo, and Solo. Well done to these students! 

On Thursday 23 May we will hold the WELC Parent Teacher Interviews. Students will be dismissed from school early on this day but are encouraged to attend the parent teacher interviews later with their family. Please fill in your preferred time on the interview form and return to school. We encourage all students and families to attend these interviews. It is a good time to discuss with teachers the student’s progress and what they can do to improve. We will also discuss their transition plan then. We look forward to seeing everyone then!

Miss Debby Morgan

WELC Coordinator

Message from the International Student Coordinator 

International Student Adventures: A Sweet Escape to Phillip Island!

In Week 2, our international students embarked on a journey through the sweet and surreal wonders of Phillip Island—from the wonderful treats at the Phillip Island Chocolate Factory to the mesmerizing adventure at A Maze N Things Theme Park.

Exploring Phillip Island Chocolate Factory

Our journey began with a fascinating tour of the museum, where we delved into the rich history of chocolate-making. From ancient Mayan rituals to modern-day confectionery marvels, we marvelled at the evolution of this beloved treat. But the real fun began in the chocolate arcade, where the students had a great time amidst a sea of chocolate-themed games and activities. From chocolate-making demonstrations to indulgent tastings, we savoured every moment, filling our hearts (and stomachs) with joy.

Navigating A Maze N Things Theme Park

We started with a round of mini-golf, putting our skills to the test amidst whimsical obstacles and breath taking scenery. Laughter filled the air as we embraced the friendly competition, relishing in the joy of camaraderie. Students also explored the maze—a labyrinth of twists and turns that challenged both mind and spirit. As we navigated its intricate pathways, we lost ourselves in the thrill of discovery, each corner revealing a new wonder to behold. As for the magic of visual illusions, our senses were immediately dazzled by the kaleidoscope of colours and the promise of adventure lurking around every corner. From gravity-defying rooms to mind-bending optical illusions, we were transported to a world where the impossible became possible. 

International Student Program Homestay Training Night: Building Bridges and Strengthening Bonds 

In Week 3, the International Student Program successfully hosted the Homestay Training Night to foster deeper connections between our host families and provide valuable insights into the homestay experience. The evening was a testament to the spirit of community and cultural exchange that defines our program.

We were delighted to see a fantastic turnout, with host families from all walks of life gathering together for an evening of learning and camaraderie. From seasoned hosts to newcomers, each participant brought their own unique perspective and enthusiasm to the table. The heart of the evening was our interactive training sessions, designed to equip our host families with the knowledge and skills needed to provide a warm and welcoming home environment for our international students. 

Thank you to all who attended and contributed to this memorable evening. Special mention to our amazing staff, Khampheuy, Huyen and Sokmay, who worked tirelessly to organize and plan everything that ensured the training night a success. 

Summer Bao

International Student Coordinator