About 20 members of Motueka's free conversational English class recently gathered to celebrate the programme's second anniversary.
Sarah (Sez) Fyfe, Motueka coordinator for Multicultural Nelson Tasman, says the weekly classes began in response to a need within the migrant community, particularly for people on work permits or visas, spouses, and others whose immigration status may not qualify them for other forms of support.
Far more than a fun, low-pressure way to learn English, the classes have brought people together. They hold a space where people can form friendships, raise issues, receive advice, and direction to other helpful, free services and events in their community.
Students share childcare, help each other prepare for job interviews, exercise together and celebrate birthdays when whānau are far away. For people who primarily work and socialise within their own nationality groups, the classes also provide an opportunity to make wider connections and gain a better understanding of life in New Zealand.
Teachers Lucy Goode, Helen Beere and Susan Michell utilise games, structured learning conversation to meet the considerable challenge of teaching a group with wildly differing English levels, cultural needs and learning styles.
For many participants, a strong understanding of English is important for navigating employment, housing, income and education. In the classroom, students have the opportunity to relax, make mistakes, have fun, and learn in a supportive environment.
The classes are held every Saturday from 11am–12.20pm. Attendance is free and open to all.
Sarah Fyfe can be contacted for registration at motueka@multiculturalnt.co.nz, during drop-in hours at Motueka Library on Wednesdays or Community House on Fridays, from 9.30am–2.30pm.
