Category: Endorsements

NOVA Institute of Technology is a multi-campus VET provider, offering General English (GE) and English for Academic Purposes (EAP) courses at its main campus in Melbourne, with additional locations in Adelaide and Sydney. The Melbourne campus is centrally located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, providing easy access to public transport, dining options, and shopping centres. The campus occupies a single floor and features state-of-the-art facilities, including a central common area where students can socialise, use microwaves, and engage in informal conversations with peers, teachers, and staff.

Currently, the Melbourne branch delivers GE and EAP programs to a diverse student body from countries such as South America, Thailand, and India. To enhance language learning outside the classroom, NOVA Institute holds informal fortnightly combined English language classes, where students enjoy ‘potluck’ dining by bringing a dish to share. Teachers actively encourage students to participate in language exchange opportunities in Melbourne.

For professional development, NOVA Institute of Technology has a dedicated PD calendar featuring in-house and external events, including those from NEAS. Compulsory peer observations are conducted once per term, which have proven highly effective. Additionally, teachers participate in professional development opportunities offered by English Australia, National Geographic, Pearson, and Cambridge University Press whenever possible.

August 2024

NEAS congratulates The University of Sydney Centre for English Teaching (CET) for successfully completing a Quality Review Activity.

The University of Sydney’s Centre for English Teaching (CET) continues to provide high-quality education to international students, predominantly from China, with most students enrolled in their Direct Entry Courses (DECs). CET also offers specialised courses for study groups from Korea, Japan, Indonesia, and Thailand, along with short academic skill development programs.

Courses at CET are delivered via the Canvas Learning Management System (LMS), mirroring the platform used for primary university courses. Feedback from the Student Focus Group was overwhelmingly positive, with students expressing enthusiasm for their studies and a strong sense of support from the CET team. One student remarked, “This is a real college, and you can feel it,” highlighting the authenticity of the learning experience.

Students were confident in their language progress and praised the constructive feedback from teachers. CET also offers additional support through at-risk support classes, an “intervention club” aligned with the intervention policy, and a “transition program” to assist students as they progress to further study at the university. Management reported that tracking CET students into the first year of their primary university courses has yielded positive results.

CET’s commitment to student well-being is evident, with two dedicated counsellors available five days a week. Students can easily access support via reception, email, or an online form.

Teachers at CET appreciate the centre’s open-door policy, which fosters direct communication with management regarding teaching schedules, content, and other concerns. Professional development (PD) is regular and CET management also actively promotes attendance at external conferences, such as the NEAS Management Conference, the English Australia Conference, and UECA, ensuring continuous professional growth for their staff.

August 2024

The JCU Language School at James Cook University Singapore provides English language programs to help students improve their language skills for academic and professional purposes. With an emphasis on interactive learning and cultural immersion, students develop essential communication skills in a supportive environment.

Congratulations to JCU Language School for its successful completion of the NEAS Quality Review for 2024. This review encompassed structured meetings and focus group discussions involving management, students, teachers, and professional staff. Additionally, the use of anonymised Quality Principles Surveys helped identify focal points for the Quality Review process, while comprehensive stakeholder feedback was analysed in alignment with the key Principles and Drivers of the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework. For more information on the Quality Assurance Framework, please refer to this section of the NEAS website: https://neas.org.au/resources/neas-quality-framework/.

The JCU Language School offers the English Language Preparatory Program (ELPP) to international students as a pathway to further studies at JCU Singapore and other higher education institutions. The ELPP is structured into five levels, from Beginner to Advanced, and operates in 12-week trimesters with three shifts. The program ensures quality through a rigorous validation process for each assessment, involving all teachers in post-test marking, analysis, and discussion. The teaching staff at JCU are highly experienced, with between nine and 31 years of experience, and they engage in regular professional development. Notably, four members of the teaching team have recently completed their Master Practitioner Certificates with NEAS, highlighting their commitment to professional growth.

JCU Singapore actively recruits international students, focusing its marketing efforts on East Asia, North America, and Europe. The university’s Admissions Department supports international students by providing assistance in all aspects of student life. JCU Singapore fosters a culture of professionalism, collaboration, and support, with transparent communication among staff, students, and teachers. The Student Welfare department ensures student well-being, with all staff trained in first aid and psychological first aid. Each student is also assigned a staff member as an ambassador, ensuring personalised support throughout their academic journey.

August 2024

Western Sydney University (WSU) The College, located at the Sydney Olympic Park campus, provides a well-furnished and supportive learning environment. The facilities include modern classroom technology, breakout areas, and a spacious communal area for teachers.

The College hosts a diverse student body, with a significant number of students from Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. The principal course offered to students is English for Academic Purposes (EAP). In addition to EAP, the College offers various other courses like the Teacher Education Direct Entry English Program. Upon completing EAP 5, most students transition into various courses at WSU.

WSU The College benefits from being part of a larger university, particularly in the provision of a well-organised student admissions process, comprehensive support and wellbeing services, and homestay services which contribute to students’ overall academic success.

In the focus group and survey, students expressed their satisfaction with the academic support classes and appreciated their teachers. Teachers, some of whom have been with the College for several years, also appreciate the supportive environment, which has contributed to their long-term commitment.

August 2024

Congratulations to the University of Technology (UTS) College for completing a quality review activity with NEAS.

UTS College is located at 645 Harris Street Ultimo, one of four UTS locations that can accommodate students for language classes, academic support and student common areas. The common areas promote social interaction between students during their class breaks. Students mentioned that there were also plenty of opportunities to study before and after class in the UTS library.

A proud NEAS member since 1989, UTS College has been a gateway for students aiming for direct entry into UTS. The current student body is primarily from China, with others from Southeast Asia, Japan, and Korea. In a recent Focus Group, students expressed their satisfaction with the support and information they receive, sharing sentiments like, “everyone can help, and teachers help me a lot” and “I now have fewer problems in my life.” They described their teachers as “happy,” “friendly,” “funny,” and “caring,” and felt that they were making solid progress in their studies, gaining confidence along the way.

During Welcome Week, students are informed about various opportunities to enhance their learning experience. They learn about joining campus clubs and groups, and how to access support services like the HELPS (Higher Ed Learning and Pathways Support) centre and online resources.

Teachers in the Focus Group expressed confidence that students are well-integrated into university life, with ample chances to join over 100 clubs across the wider university campus.

July 2024

NEAS congratulates Deakin University English Language Institute (DUELI) for successfully completing a Quality Review activity.  

DUELI’s diverse cohort includes students from Asia, the Middle East, Latin America and Europe. These students benefit from comprehensive access to Deakin University’s services and facilities, including the library, medical centre, and fitness centre. They also receive membership to the Deakin University Student Association (DUSA), further integrating them into the university community. 

DUELI students also enjoy a designated conversation room, computer lab, and the Independent Learning Centre (ILC). The ILC is equipped with online resources for language development, CDs and DVDs to enhance listening and comprehension skills, pronunciation and listening comprehension tools, daily newspapers, magazines, books, and complimentary photocopying services. 

Teachers at DUELI are matched to classes based on their teaching experience, ensuring a high standard of education. Student feedback reflects this dedication, with the majority expressing high satisfaction with the course delivery, assessment methods, and teaching strategies. Students have also confirmed receiving adequate feedback on assessments and course progression. Focus Group participants reported feeling well supported by DUELI’s teachers, professional staff, and management, with one student noting significant academic progress. 

To further support student success, DUELI offers a variety of workshops including pronunciation workshops, grammar games classes, and EAP researching workshops, all strategically designed to enhance learning outcomes. 

July 2024

Congratulations to CQUEnglish Sydney for completing a Self-Assessment quality review activity. 

The Self-Assessment is a structured activity that supports the centre in reviewing its most recent NEAS Quality Review report, internal review and evaluation observations, feedback from students and other stakeholders, the centre’s strategic plan, and external factors such as industry intelligence or current media issues. CQUEnglish Sydney conducted a self-assessment against four key Quality Principles from the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework, chosen based on their relevance to the centre. 

Principle A1: Course design supports quality learning outcomes, was chosen based on feedback from students and staff. The centre plans to update its materials and introduce surveys that gather insights on course design, materials, and assessments. 

Under Principle A5: Students are encouraged to take control of their language learning, CQUEnglish Sydney plans to re-evaluate and redesign its Independent Learning to incorporate flipped learning, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach to educational enhancement. Additionally, the centre aims to increase the involvement of higher education staff with ELICOS students through regular information sessions, creating a more supportive and integrated learning environment to enhance student engagement and success. 

For Principle B2: Students have the information and support needed to adjust to living and studying in this country, the centre will enhance information provided to students about life in Australia and wellbeing throughout each course.  

Considering recommendations from previous quality review reports, the centre selected Principle D4: The Centre supports a performance and development culture for all staff. This initiative aims to diversify how teachers share ideas and resources, including hosting online seminars by CQUniversity experts on topics like Artificial Intelligence and Academic Integrity Literacy. These efforts will equip teachers with knowledge on ethical AI use in learning and reduce instances of academic misconduct. 

The Centre is commended for integrating feedback from previous NEAS Quality Review activities into its ongoing planning for continuous improvement. This demonstrates its dedication to excellence and ongoing development. 

July 2024

NEAS congratulates Ivanhoe Grammar School on completing a recent quality review activity.

Ivanhoe Grammar School, based in Melbourne, offers a NEAS endorsed intensive English Language program at its Ridgeway Campus. The school conducted a Self-Assessment activity, which supports members in evaluating the quality of their operations against the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework. This assessment includes reviewing current practices and planning for continuous improvement.

Ivanhoe Grammar School has carefully self-reflected on its current practices and presented plans for continuous improvement in three Quality Areas: C, D, and F.

For Quality Area C: Student Facilities and Services Foster Community, in pursuit of fostering community within the student body, the school is actively enhancing various facilities and services. This includes improving the safety and functionality of the Recreation Area, ensuring timely maintenance and cleaning during school holidays, promoting cultural celebrations, diversifying cafeteria food options, and updating the furniture and layout of the International Centre.

To address Quality Area D: The Centre Has an Organisational Structure That Effectively Supports the Provision of Services to Students, the school has devised a comprehensive plan that involves conducting regular staff meetings to provide updates on international student matters, coordinating efforts among key leaders to implement policies, offering detailed orientation for new teachers that covers international student welfare, briefing the psychology team on the specific needs of international students, and providing necessary psychological support services.

In relation to Quality Area F: The ELT Centre Supports Effective Welfare Arrangements for All Students, to ensure effective welfare arrangements for all students, the school has outlined several strategic initiatives. These include integrating valuable student feedback into marketing materials, reintroducing in-country parent-teacher interviews to enhance communication channels, equipping the Dean of International Students with advanced communication technology, and bolstering overall safety measures and welfare arrangements.

NEAS commends Ivanhoe Grammar School for presenting a well-thought-out and thorough self-assessment activity, providing valuable insights and a clear roadmap for enhancing the quality and effectiveness of its programs and services, reinforcing its commitment to continuous improvement and excellence in education.

July 2024

Study Vision, part of Consteam (Australia) Asia Pacific Pty Ltd, specialises in providing homestay and student accommodation services to international students. The company focuses on creating safe and supportive environments, particularly for students under 18. Study Vision places students from diverse backgrounds into appropriate accommodation and offers 24/7 support. The company prides itself on maintaining strict safety and quality standards. Its comprehensive recruitment, screening, and training of homestay hosts have established it as a preferred accommodation provider. Headquartered in Sydney, Study Vision’s services extend across major Australian and New Zealand cities, offering accommodation, airport pickup services, and guardianship for students in leading educational institutions.

NEAS is pleased to assess and endorse Study Vision in the category of Quality Products and Services (Area O – Homestay Service Providers). The Quality Principles of Area O focus on the following critical aspects of the vendor’s service: its governance and management practices; the provision of a safe and comfortable living environment for students; its support for student welfare arrangements; and the training of host families for student welfare and wellbeing. Detailed information on Area O of the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework can be referenced here: https://neas.org.au/resources/neas-quality-framework/#area-o.

Study Vision’s comprehensive General Guidelines for hosts and students ensure smooth placements, with clear payment arrangements and no additional fees. Regular bi-weekly emails to host families and students confirm placements, gather feedback, and include reminders about rules. For students under 18, Study Vision provides a Local Caregiver who communicates with students, hosts, and parents, attends school meetings, and reports back, benefiting busy host families. NEAS employs a 360-degree stakeholder feedback model for quality assurance assessments. Anonymised feedback highlighted positive experiences with Study Vision. Students praised their assistance in finding and booking homestays, expressing satisfaction with their experiences. Hosts commended Study Vision for its organised approach in homestay placements, emphasising ongoing relationships with former students and their families. They appreciated Study Vision’s facilitation of enjoyable homestay experiences for both hosts and students and commended the organisation for its professionalism and continuous support.

July 2024

NEAS congratulates Macquarie University Department of Linguistics on the successful completion of a quality review activity.

NEAS endorses the Graduate Certificate of TESOL and the Master of Applied Linguistics and TESOL, both of which were redesigned in 2023 to align with graduate capabilities and new Course Learning Outcomes. The Department’s innovative design includes a new TESOL Methodologies Unit that is highly practical, utilising flipped learning and authentic assessment tasks to foster collaboration and feedback literacy. Other course highlights include the Second Language Acquisition unit, which aligns with professional settings, and the incorporation of flipped and dialogic learning in Linguistics and Language Teaching.

The Department’s strengths are evident in its learning and teaching-focused research projects, which inform unit design and teaching methods, allowing for evidence-based practices in sustainable language teacher education and dialogic teaching.

The Graduate Certificate in TESOL has also been recognised by the industry, with NSW TAFE granting equivalency to Certificate IV in TAE. This recognition enhances the course’s appeal to new language teachers and supports new teaching positions in TAFE.

The Department has recently been honoured with several awards, including Faculty Learning and Teaching Awards, Vice Chancellor’s Learning and Teaching Awards, and Senior Fellow recognition from HEA, further demonstrating outstanding achievements in education and innovative language teacher training.

July 2024