IST Correspondent: Around 700 teachers, representing the 297 community language schools across the state that teach sixty-one community languages, will attend their annual conference organised by
NSW Federation of Community Language Schools on Saturday 26th of April.
The conference at Sydney University will follow the inspiring theme: Stronger Together
and Making a Difference for Community Languages.
The Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early learning, Prue Car, has sent a
video message to the conference in which she expressed her pride in backing the work of
the Federation to be as wide-reaching as possible.
“In 2024 the Government boosted support for the eligible community language schools
with an extra $100 per student to ease the load on families and to support the Federation’s
work even further.
“The new funding will help ensure students can maintain connection to their heritage and
alleviate some of the costs that parents face in supporting their children’s language
education”, she said.
Describing the Federation as “a powerhouse” the Deputy Premier said: “The impact that
you have across the state cannot be understated.
“I have seen first-hand – kids learning, laughing, proudly learning, switching between
languages and sharing in the joy of being understood. That’s what your schools give.
“You help kids stay connected to who they are, keeping language alive in homes and hearts
for generations.
“The NSW Government is so pleased to be backing your work and thanks you for
everything you do to help kids hold onto a vital part of themselves,” she said.
The CEO of the Federation, Michael Christodoulou AM, said today: “After last year’s
wonderful success, we’re absolutely thrilled to bring back this highly anticipated event!
“This year will be packed with even more opportunities for language educators and school
management committees to connect with top-notch expert presenters and explore the latest
trends and innovations in language teaching and learning.
“We’ve prepared a fantastic lineup of renowned international and local speakers aimed
specifically at community language teachers.
“I thank the Deputy Premier for her video message. We very much appreciate her time, her
thoughtful words, her support and her sincerity expressed in that message which all
participants will hear at the conference”, he said.
