Background:
Noble Park English Language School (NPELS), located in the South Eastern Victorian Metropolitan Region, caters to a diverse group of students, providing an intensive English language course for those from non-English speaking backgrounds. With students coming from countries such as Afghanistan, China, Somalia, Iran, Vietnam, and Pakistan, NPELS addresses the needs of migrants, refugees, and international students seeking language proficiency and a supportive community. Some are on student visas, sponsored by parents in their home countries. Others are refugees who spent years as children in camps where little formal education was available. Others are seeking asylum and hoping for successful outcomes in their applications. 

Program Details:
Each term, our students work on a project negotiated between NPELS and St Leonard’s teachers which supports learning in other English classes at NPELS. Past projects have included writing recipes, creating brochures about Australian landscapes, comparing sustainability practices, and conducting character studies from novels.  Each term kicks off with a planning and training meeting for our students, and subsequent weeks involve them visiting NPELS to work directly with the NPELS students on the project. The English Teaching Program involves a two-term commitment during either summer (terms 1 and 4) or winter (terms 2 and 3), aligning with our Senior School sport seasons. This program serves as a valuable alternative to traditional sports activities. 

Celebration of Achievements:
At the end of each term, a celebration is held where NPELS students present their work to each other and to the leadership teams from both NPELS and St Leonard’s College.   This is followed by an informal celebration allowing NPELS and St Leonard’s students to acknowledge the achievements and friendships made throughout the term, to say thank you, and to foster a supportive and inclusive environment. These accomplishments are reflected upon at Senior School and year level assemblies as well as in CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) reflections for International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme students.  

Benefits:
At St Leonard’s College, we believe in the power of collaboration and service, and the NPELS English Teaching Program exemplifies our commitment to global citizenship and community service. This program creates a positive impact through education and friendship. Beyond the academic aspect, the program fosters communication skills and interpersonal relationships, building a sense of pride in learning and providing an opportunity for mutual appreciation and understanding. 

Participation in the NPELS English Teaching Program also often becomes a valuable addition to students’ CVs, showcasing their initiative and commitment to community service.