Program supports refugees at Clonard

EDCONNECT Australia has entered into a partnership project with Refugee Education Support Program (RESP) at Clonard Secondary College.

RESP improves the educational outcomes of students from migrant and refugee backgrounds by providing holistic and targeted support to selected schools to strengthen the connections between student achievement and wellbeing.

In Geelong, EdConnect delivers a Learning Support Program for students from refugee and EAL (English as an Additional Language) backgrounds attending the college.

“The after school program is such a valuable experience for our students,” Clonard College individualised needs curriculum leader Paula Hardy said.

“They look forward to every session and very much appreciate the support and assistance they receive.”

Four EdConnect volunteers were recruited, screened and trained at the start of Term 2.

Since the beginning of May, they have been actively supporting students for an hour on Thursdays after school. Their focus, along with the educational requirements, is on promoting wellbeing and life skills.

“The volunteers have connected with the students quickly – it’s lovely to see how comfortable and confident our students are becoming,” Ms Hardy said.

The project aims to contribute to improving students’ English language development and encourage completion of required homework and classroom work tasks. Volunteers will also help increase students’ social connections and confidence in their ability to participate in the classroom.

Former Clonard student Tricia O’Keeffe is one of the volunteers and looks forward to attending each week.

“I was keen to connect with young people to assist with their education, even if in a small way. “I am enjoying the interaction with the Clonard girls by helping with research of various homework topics.”

EdConnect Australia provides schools with skilled volunteers to give additional support to students who may face challenges in their academic careers.

The team at EdConnect has been training volunteers and connecting them with local schools across Australia for over 20 years.

They now have more than 1,300 active volunteers in more than 260 schools across the country.