Category: NEAS News

In May 2022, UOW College Australia successfully completed a special pilot initiative introduced by NEAS for its new Area M, focusing on the Quality Endorsement of Transnational Delivery. UOW College Australia became the inaugural NEAS Centre to receive Quality Endorsement in the Transnational Delivery category, specifically for its English for Tertiary Studies (ETS) International Program.

The ETS International Program was developed at the request of the University of Wollongong (UOW)-Central China Normal University (CCNU) Joint Institute in Wuhan, China to enhance further the connection between the two universities. Based on the onshore (UOW College Australia) ETS Program, a direct entry English course for undergraduate and postgraduate studies at UOW, the ETS International Program was developed collaboratively by senior professionals of the UOW-CCNU Joint Institute, UOW, and UOW College Australia, and has been in operation since 2018.

Heather Thomas, Director of Global Programs and Deputy General Manager at UOW College Australia, visited CCNU in early November 2023, marking her first visit since the pandemic. She expressed delight in observing CCNU proudly showcasing the NEAS Quality Endorsement of the ETS International Program as a significant milestone achievement for the University.

November 2023

It is with sincere gratitude that we farewell Dr Patrick Pheasant as NEAS Australia’s outgoing Chief Executive Officer.  

Patrick has been an exemplary leader over the past seven years – for our organisation, our members, and the sector. Patrick’s focus on Quality Assurance (QA) has upheld the integrity and reputation of English Language Teaching (ELT) in Australia and internationally, during uniquely challenging times. 

Led by Patrick’s advocacy, NEAS has influenced national policy conversations that have shaped the future of our sector and represented our members. Through his development and expansion of the NEAS Advisory Council, being a founding member of the global Quality Assurance in Language Education Network (QALEN) and introducing the NEAS Capstone Course: Master Practitioner in ELT (Quality Assurance) and Communities of Practice, Patrick has skilfully balanced innovation and QA throughout his tenure. 

Patrick’s focus on relationships with providers and overseas partners has solidified the reputation of the Australian ELT sector at home and abroad. This has been exemplified through the design, development, and delivery of nine additional QA framework areas including ELT Qualifications, Endorsed Education Agents, Homestay Providers and ELT Products & Services.

In guiding us to become a global network with a flagship annual conference, expanding our professional development programs and introducing a hybrid service delivery model, Patrick’s passion for connection created opportunities for members to learn and grow with each other, resulting in the confidence to deliver quality ELT. 

Demonstrating stoicism and wisdom when the world as we knew it changed, Patrick guided us through a response plan and strategic pivots that led the organisational transformation to what NEAS is today.  

We wish Patrick the best in his future pursuits and look forward to staying connected for years to come. 

During the leadership transition, our long-standing team continues to serve our members. Please do not hesitate to reach out to Daniel Yuen (Operations Manager), Rima Ibrahim (Education Manager) and Peetra Lechte (Communications Manager) for support.  

November 2023

STARFISH Education, the first NEAS Quality Endorsed Centre in Myanmar, is pleased to announce the resumption of in-person classes, marking a noteworthy return to on-site engagement. This move underscores the Centre’s dedication to providing quality education and reflects its adaptability in navigating challenges.

As face-to-face learning resumes, STARFISH Education is committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment, prioritising personalised and impactful education. 

Congratulations to STARFISH Education on this significant step!

November 2023.

The NEAS team is proud to have been a nominee at the Associations Forum Association Awards ceremony on Tuesday 21 November, 2023. NEAS was nominated for the Association External Campaign of the Year 2023.

The campaign highlighted for this award was the Ukraine Workshop Series Campaign, which was in response to an urgent call from the Ukraine Ambassador Vasyl Myroshnychenko and GoGlobal NGO. In consultation with them, NEAS provided organisational resources and support to deliver this workshop series. 

This workshop was free for all participants and attendees, and centred around trauma-informed practice and teaching, maintaining student and teacher motivation and mental health, as well as building resilience in ELT in times of crisis. 

November 2023

The NEAS Team congratulates David Riordan, Director on the NEAS Board, for receiving the inaugural award for ‘Outstanding Contributions to the International Education Sector’, a new category introduced at the Study NSW International Education Awards 2023.

David has dedicated 30 years to the field of international education. David has held many prominent positions, including CEO of the NSW Department of Education International, CEO of TAFE NSW, CEO of the Office of Communities, and Director of City Services at the City of Sydney. This recognition is well-deserved and marks the culmination of three decades of exceptional service.

The team at NEAS is delighted and proud to celebrate David’s remarkable achievements!

November 2023

It is with immense pleasure that NEAS extends a warm congratulations to Mr Adam Kilburn, the next Chief Executive Officer and Public Officer of NEAS Australia. 

Adam brings extensive experience in the English Language Teaching sector, most recently as Director of Holmesglen’s English Language Centre in Melbourne.  

Adam has had executive oversight for ELICOS, AMEP and teacher training programs within a TAFE and training environment, specialising in management and bringing experience as lead teacher and teacher trainer specialist. 

With deep knowledge of student recruitment, quality and compliance, and curriculum development, we are confident that Adam’s skill set and experience in business start-ups and process improvement will be an asset to NEAS.  

Adam holds a Master of Arts (Language and Literacy) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA).

Our capable NEAS team, consisting of Daniel Yuen, Operations Manager, Rima Ibrahim, Education Manager and Peetra Lechte, Communications Manager, continue to support our members throughout the leadership transition period. Please do not hesitate to contact us for anything you may need during this time. 

At the end of November, we will have our farewell to Dr Patrick Pheasant, but for now, we officially welcome Adam to the role, commencing 8 January 2024. 

November 2023

SACE is located in Adelaide, South Australia, and has been welcoming students from diverse regions including South America, Southeast Asia, Europe, and China. 

Currently, SACE provides General English and Academic English courses, including IELTS and PTE preparation. In addition, students enjoy English Plus, a specialised program tailored for golf enthusiasts.

With over 25 years experience, SACE has established strong partnerships with prestigious institutions like Flinders University and TAFE, ensuring seamless academic pathways for its students. The Centre also provides dedicated homestay services, overseen by a homestay coordinator, to ensure a comfortable and enriching living experience for international students.

SACE places great emphasis on student satisfaction and actively seeks their feedback, offering effective mechanisms for communication and improvement. Through Club SACE, students can unwind and bond with peers every Friday afternoon while enjoying extracurricular activities. These activities include field trips, such as trips to the Adelaide Show, museums, and sporting activities. In addition, SACE collaborates with Study Adelaide to provide access to free and discounted weekend events for international students.

October 2023

Sarina Russo Institute (SRI) Brisbane campus is one of the 90+ Sarina Russo Group sites across Australia. The Centre offers a range of vocational and English language programs, including the Intensive General English (IGE) program and the Bridging English Entry Program (BEEP). In addition SRI provides a weekly, one-hour multi-level speaking class, which also facilitates creative group activities.

The Centre features a resource centre, offering access to learning software and a space for small group gatherings. Support staff, including a dedicated qualified student counsellor, are readily available to assist students. A dedicated student space, where complimentary fruit is provided for students in the mornings, and free photocopying services are available give students an added sense of being cared for. 

SRI students reported being satisfied with the quality of learning and the support they received from their teachers and management and described the staff as ‘amazing’. Teachers described the organisation as efficient, caring, honest, and a great place to work!

October 2023