Helping community connection

FREE English lessons at Naracoorte High School are helping migrants and their families connect with the community and unlock new opportunities, thanks to a $10,000 grant from Stand Like Stone.

The school is delivering weekly English as a Second Language classes for adults over 18, responding to rapid demographic change driven by local immigrant workforce growth. Today, around one quarter of Naracoorte High School’s student population comes from a non-English speaking background.

The program provides a welcoming and inclusive environment where participants can build confidence, strengthen communication skills and form social connections that extend well beyond the classroom.

Stand Like Stone’s funding supports teachers to deliver the program outside normal school hours. The grant draws on investment returns from the foundation’s general fund and the Naracoorte and Districts Sub-Fund, made possible through past community fundraising and local contributions.

Teacher Bronwyn Longbottom said interest in the program was immediate, with more than 60 people attending the first session. The classes now average around 30 participants each week.

“The response showed us just how much this program was needed,” Ms Longbottom said. “We now run two levels – beginner and more advanced – so every learner can get the support they need.”

Principal Kieron Hicks said Naracoorte High School has seen a significant increase in multicultural enrolments, with more than 100 students now from non-English speaking backgrounds.

“Our community has changed quickly, and this program is helping families feel confident and supported,” Mr Hicks said.

“Naracoorte does a really good job of bringing people together and we are fortunate to have community volunteers giving their time to support learners as well – we celebrate diversity as a strength.”

The benefits of the program extend into employment, education and community life. Ms Longbottom said improved language skills are helping participants pursue a wider range of

opportunities, including trades training, further education and stronger engagement with local networks.

Ches Cubero and Masooma Batool, who both migrated to Australia and now work at Naracoorte High School as school service officers, said learning English had been transformative for participants.

“Learning English is really bringing people together,” Ches said. “It helps us understand each other and build a stronger community. Improving my English helps me at work, in childcare and at home with my daughter.”

The program also reduces pressure on children from migrant families, who are often required to translate for their parents.

“By teaching adults, we’re giving parents the skills to be independent and confident without relying on their children to navigate language barriers,” Ms Longbottom said.

Naracoorte High School student Hossein said learning English has helped him succeed at school and plan for the future. After arriving in Australia from Iran with no English, he now hopes to pursue a plumbing apprenticeship after school. His mother and sister are also part of the program.

The English as a Second Language program at Naracoorte High School is creating lasting change, strengthening community connections and opening doors to education and employment.

Stand Like Stone chief executive officer Jason Wallace said the funding reflects the foundation’s commitment to inclusive communities.

“By providing the support people need to connect, engage and further their education, we are helping to build a stronger future together,” he said.