FOR some years Stawell’s Marian Monas and Bonnie Carter have been voluntarily offering English classes to people who have settled in the area from non-English speaking countries.
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Usually held on Wednesday evening at 7pm at the Stawell Neighbourhood House, the class numbers wax and wane according to need.
There are currently about 10 students attending the two-hour session.
Various nationalities have been represented at the classes.
People from countries such as Somalia, Philippines, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Argentina, Brazil, Bangladesh, India, Pakistan, South Korea, Taiwan, Japan and Greece have all participated.
Basic grammar, conversation and Australian culture are all part of the classes.
The classes do not lead to any formal certificates, but rather focus on the general needs of the students.
Support for finding employment, housing and local facilities is also offered.
For some students the social side of coming to the sessions is just as important as the academics.
Social isolation, lack of family support and loneliness often making it difficult for non-English speaking newcomers to fit into the community.
New class members are always welcome.
If you know someone who would benefit from the classes, phone the neighbourhood house for more information on 5358 3500.
A gold coin donation is asked for each session to cover electricity and photocopy costs.
