Have a laugh while learning English

A NEW initiative organised by Moorabool Shire library staff is helping residents improve their English-speaking skills.

The Language Lounge: English Conversation Club is held at Lerderderg Library and is open to all members of the community.

“The idea was suggested by a retired teacher who noticed a lot of parents and grandparents at school drop off and pick up were from ESL (English as a Second Language) background and didn’t speak much English,” Moorabool Shire mayor Ally Munari said.

“She approached library staff and suggested starting an English conversation club to help these community members who were struggling with the language.”

The sessions are informal, with small discussions on everyday topics and volunteers to guide conversation.

“We hope to see a sense of community, social connections, confidence, improved vocabulary and fluency, and cultural understanding for both the attendees and the volunteers,” Cr Munari said.

“As the Moorabool community becomes increasingly culturally diverse, it is important to provide opportunities for people to learn and improve their English language skills, for inclusion, to support access to services and opportunities and to enhance social connections.”

The next session will be held Monday 9 September. More information can be found on the Moorabool Shire Council website.