Congratulations to CQUEnglish Melbourne!

NEAS congratulates CQUEnglish Melbourne on the successful completion of its recent Quality Review activity.

Located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, CQUEnglish Melbourne demonstrated strengths in course design, teaching quality, and student support. The Centre’s programs are structured with a robust syllabus and well-aligned assessments, providing students with clear learning pathways. Students benefit from a supportive learning environment, with access to academic workshops, individual consultations, and comprehensive orientation resources.

Additionally, CQUEnglish Melbourne fosters a strong sense of community through engaging social and recreational activities, along with ample common spaces that promote interaction. Teachers praised the collaborative work culture, supported by professional development opportunities and resources. The Centre’s modern facilities and access to university-level resources, such as a well-equipped library and a dedicated student lounge, further enrich the student experience.

November 2024

Congratulations to TAFE Brisbane!

Congratulations to TAFE Brisbane on completing a successful quality review activity with NEAS.

TAFE Queensland ELT Centre conducted a Self-Assessment, a structured process that enables members to assess the quality of their operations in line with the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework, while also planning for continuous improvement.

TAFE Queensland ELT Centre has engaged in a thoughtful self-assessment, presenting plans for enhancement across three Quality Principles: A1, B2, and D4.

For Quality Principle A1: Course Design Supports Quality Learning Outcomes, the Centre is dedicated to enriching its curriculum for General English, IELTS, EAP, and Cambridge programs. The curriculum redesign aims to better meet student learning needs, increase engagement, and incorporate modern teaching methodologies and technology.

In addressing Quality Principle B2: Students Have the Information and Support Needed to Adjust to Living and Studying in This Country, TAFE Queensland ELT Centre has planned a series of initiatives to enhance student welfare. These include revising early intervention policies to address student welfare concerns more effectively, improving student engagement and attendance, and implementing feedback mechanisms that gather valuable student insights to continuously improve their experience.

Regarding Quality Principle D4: The Centre Supports a Performance and Development Culture for All Staff, TAFE Queensland ELT Centre is committed to fostering a supportive work environment that encourages professional growth. The Centre continues to promote its “Sharing Best Educational Practice” program, peer observation opportunities, and partnerships with other institutions, enabling staff to upskill and secure long-term employment opportunities.

NEAS commends TAFE Queensland ELT Centre for its detailed and reflective self-assessment, which provides a clear path for continuous improvement and reinforces the Centre’s dedication to high standards in education and student support.

November 2024

Expression of Interest: NEAS Advisory Council Membership

NEAS is seeking applications to fill a few vacant positions on its Advisory Council.

Why Join?

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the growth and advancement of NEAS and the English Language Teaching (ELT) sector!

The Advisory Council is a community of individuals who bring diverse expertise and perspectives to provide advice to the CEO and Board at NEAS.

As a member, you will be part of a supportive and collegiate network that values your views and contributions.

With a refreshed structure, members of the Advisory Council take turns in facilitating conversations around specific areas of interest, aligned with NEAS’ strategic goals.

Commitment and Expectations:

  • Membership is for a 24-month term, with the possibility of renewal.
  • The Advisory Council meets online up to six times annually.
  • Members are asked to contribute actively by preparing for and facilitating discussions and helping NEAS address key industry priorities.

For more information, see the Terms of Reference.

To express your interest, please submit your application, detailing your experience, areas of expertise, and what you hope to bring to the Advisory Council.

Join us in making a difference in the ELT industry. Apply here!

Applications close at 5pm on Friday, 10th January 2025.

November 2024

Congratulations to the English Unlimited Sydney Campus!

NEAS congratulates English Unlimited Sydney Campus on completing a successful Quality Review Activity.

English Unlimited Sydney is dedicated to fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment. This commitment is evident in the Centre’s ongoing updates to its “Everyday English” curriculum, which are informed by teacher feedback to ensure relevance and effectiveness. English Unlimited also emphasises academic growth through regular assessments and personalised support.

The Centre provides students with a range of immersive activities managed by a dedicated Activities Coordinator, creating further opportunities for language practice beyond the classroom. The Centre’s commitment to student welfare, especially for those under 18, is reflected in its comprehensive safety protocols and secure campus environment.

November 2024

Congratulations to the English Language School in Sydney (ELSIS)!

Congratulations to the English Language School in Sydney (ELSIS) for completing a successful quality review activity with NEAS.


Located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD at 160 Sussex Street, ELSIS Sydney offers a prime location for students, close to iconic attractions like the QVB, Town Hall, and Darling Harbour. The centre provides General English courses for overseas students, while its Parramatta campus delivers English for Academic Preparation (EAP) programs. ELSIS also offers popular study tours, particularly enjoyed by Korean students.


Attracting students aged 18 to 35 from Korea, Japan, Colombia, Brazil, and Mongolia, the Sydney campus is highly regarded by its learners. Students in focus groups praised their teachers for helping them improve their English skills, highlighting their dedication to lesson preparation and their clear explanations of grammar and vocabulary. They also valued the feedback they received, noting that teachers’ corrections were “good for everyone.”


Teachers benefit from flexibility in using additional resources beyond the coursebook, which is encouraged by management and enjoyed by students.

November 2024

Congratulations to Southern Cross University (SCU) Gold Coast!

NEAS congratulates Southern Cross University (SCU) Gold Coast on successfully completing a Quality Review Activity.

SCU Gold Coast campus offers a warm and inviting space for students. Housed within three main buildings, the campus features thoughtfully designed classrooms and office areas.

The supportive team atmosphere is evident, with teachers expressing appreciation for the encouragement they receive from leadership.

Students praised the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program, noting that it clearly links to their academic goals. They also valued the added IELTS practice tests available in the Academic Ready segment of the General English course.

The campus fosters community engagement, encouraging students to connect with the local English-speaking community. Friday afternoon activities with the SCU student clubs and guidance from support staff to join local clubs or gyms ensure students feel connected both in and out of the classroom.

November 2024

Health and wellbeing of international students in Australia

Caring for the health and wellbeing of international students is essential to their success and sense of belonging. By understanding the challenges they face, ELT providers can better support these students both inside and outside the classroom. The 2023 State of Student Healthcare Report provides insights that could help centres strengthen their approach to student care.  

 The report found many international students were choosing Australia as their study destination to seek out a higher standard of living and a better quality of life. Half of students surveyed were satisfied with the quality of life they enjoy in Australia, and very few rated it poorly.One major finding is the importance of addressing mental health issues. Many students report experiencing anxiety, depression, and loneliness, yet few seek professional support.

Language barriers also prevent students from accessing important information, limiting their ability to navigate Australia’s healthcare system and improve their health literacy.

Additionally, financial pressures, particularly the rising cost of living, are a significant concern for many students.

These challenges align closely with Quality Area B of the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework, which focuses on student support and well-being.

So, how can providers help?

  • Offer resources in multiple languages to improve accessibility;
  • Phase orientation programs to ensure students can absorb key information over time;
  • Create supportive environments that normalise conversations about mental health;
  • Provide budgeting workshops and connect students with community resources to alleviate financial stress.

With these insights, ELT providers have the opportunity to further align their services with student needs, creating a more supportive, student-centred experience that enhances learning outcomes and fosters a sense of belonging.

The 2023 State of Student Healthcare Report was produced by Allianz Partners under international health insurance brand, Allianz Care Australia, a NEAS partner.

November 2024

News from Adam

Welcome to the latest edition of our CEO’s column News From Adam.

Last week at the AIEC conference I was delighted to accept an award on behalf of NEAS and Study NSW in the category of Best Practice in International Education for Shaping the Future: The World’s First Homestay Quality Standards. This follows a PIEoneer Award presented in London for the same standards for public/private partnership of the year. 

While you might think that NEAS limits itself to English language training delivery, the new reality is that we work within what is a very diverse sector, and our approach to quality and continuous improvement is transferable. Launched back in March of this year, the NEAS Homestay Standards were many months in the making and are part of a considered strategy to apply our expertise beyond the traditional ELT realm. Special thanks should go to Ana Bratkovic for her work in writing the standards and to our endorsed providers with whom we consulted for genuine industry currency. This award is recognition that we’ve been successful in our strategy! But striving for success can’t stop there. With what is now a growing pool of interested hosted accommodation providers from industry providers to schools and universities eager to demonstrate their commitment to quality, NEAS has secured funding from our partners at Study NSW to scope the creation of a new Homestay Association. We’re attracting support from government and building communities of common interest.

We’re so excited about this initiative and our future! We hope you are too.

October 2024

Congratulations to Southern Cross University Lismore!

NEAS Congratulates Southern Cross University Lismore on completing a successful Quality Review Activity.

The recent NEAS Quality Review of SCU Lismore commends the centre for its commitment to professional development. Despite teaching staff being employed on a casual basis, they are employed in a manner that allows them time to prepare materials, mark student work, and participate in professional development sessions. Peer observations are also conducted at least once a year, ensuring ongoing improvement in teaching practices.

SCU’s English program continues to demonstrate its relevance to the university. The NEAS-endorsed online program, now in its second year, serves students at partner universities in north-east China and is set to expand to Japan. Supported by a SCU language teacher onsite, students in this program can progress to the EAP program as a pathway to university studies.

International students at the Lismore campus are warmly welcomed and encouraged to get involved in both campus and community activities. These include volunteering at the local Koala Rescue hospital, participating in student organisation events, and joining university clubs such as gardening and bouldering. The orientation process is continuous and supported by the Careers Advice unit, counsellors, library staff, accommodation advisors, and Surf Life Savers during the season. The university’s partnership with AHN provides additional support through homestay options, and student services are conveniently located near the large outdoor food court on campus.

October 2024

Congratulations to Future English!

Congratulations to Future English on achieving Quality Endorsement with NEAS.

Future English, located in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, benefits from its central position within an Arcade of shops and eateries. As part of Laurus Education, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) offering Vocational Education Training (VET) courses, Future English provides General English programs across five levels, from Starter to Upper Intermediate. Many students from Future English transition into VET courses, such as Cookery and Hospitality.

With a strong marketing department and an international network of education agents, Future English recruits students both off- and on-shore, with most students coming through agents. Students are from a broad range of countries, including Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Colombia, Chile, Ecuador, Italy, Albania, Macedonia, and Russia. Students are enrolled in either morning or evening classes.

Future English fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment, with transparent communication between staff, students, and management. A sense of community is enhanced through excursions, and student wellbeing is supported by a dedicated Student Support Officer.

Students have expressed their satisfaction with the courses and outcomes, with feedback such as “my school is very good, I love it,” “I am very, very happy,” and “this is a good way to achieve our goals.” Teachers have also shared positive sentiments, stating, “I am glad to work here and contribute to students’ progress,” “great school to work for, extremely organised, good resources, and a very friendly environment that makes you feel supported by a community,” and “my co-workers are friendly and supportive, which is also motivating for me.”

October 2024