NEWS

The 2025 NEAS Conference Is Just One Week Away!

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

We are getting ready to welcome our wonderful NEAS community to the 2025 NEAS Conference, happening next week at the UTS Aerial Function Centre in Sydney. 

Whether this is your first time or you have attended in the past, we are so pleased to have you join us. It is going to be a fantastic opportunity to reconnect, share ideas, and reflect on the future of English Language Teaching together.

To those attending

To everyone travelling to Sydney, we wish you a safe and smooth journey. Your participation helps make this conference such a valuable and engaging experience. We are looking forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting new ones as we come together to celebrate our shared commitment to quality in education.

Check the Program

Take a moment to review the conference program so you are across all the sessions, presentations and activities happening over the two days. Planning ahead will help you make the most of your time at the conference and ensure you don’t miss the sessions that matter most to you!

Visit the Exhibitor Booths

Be sure to stop by the sponsors’ booths during the conference! Our sponsors are an integral part of the ELT community, offering a wide range of products and services that support our sector. Take the time to connect, ask questions, and discover how they’re contributing to the growth and quality of our industry.

Many sponsors have also generously donated prizes to be drawn at the Networking Event on Thursday afternoon. Don’t forget to pick up your raffle ticket at the registration desk!

Can’t make it this year?

We are sorry you won’t be with us in person, but there’s still a little time left to register if your plans change!

Otherwise, stay connected via our social media channels where we will be sharing conference highlights, photos and key moments. We hope to see you in 2026.

News from Adam

Posted on | by Gita Nasution

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

NEAS is an organisation that runs on passion.

This word, “passion” gets thrown around a lot these days in a range of settings. Everyone’s passionate about something, and there is a risk that it might be over-used. That said, one of my favourite usages is in education, where it serves to counterbalance bureaucracy and compliance. It IS a great “cut-through” word and it does actually return us to the heart of things in education. We’re in it because we’re passionate about people and transformation.

Anyway, enough of that!

I’m thrilled to announce that NEAS has appointed a new Manager for Quality and Professional Development.

Richard Stevenson comes to us most recently from University of Canberra College where he was College Director and later Director Quality Assurance and Compliance, a role serving the university as a whole in which he managed quality improvement projects. In addition to his university experience, Richard’s origins are as an English teacher in Korea. His later roles in ELICOS academic management for Study Group and Flinders University, make him a well-rounded and highly suitable successful candidate.

Most importantly – indeed the deciding factor in his selection – is his genuine and demonstrated passion for NEAS and this role. I’m sure Richard won’t mind me sharing his view that this role suits his career trajectory beautifully.

I’m really excited to be working with Richard and I am sure you will welcome him warmly after he starts on Monday. If you’re coming to the NEAS conference next week, he’ll be there to meet you in person.

May 2025

Speaker Spotlight: Supporting Success in Pathway Programs

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

Supporting students through complex learning journeys requires a commitment to care and quality. The 2025 NEAS Conference sessions highlighted this week explore how reliable systems and people-centred practices are making a difference across international and transnational education settings.

A Transnational Delivery Experience

How do you develop and implement a General English program in a different country while maintaining NEAS Quality Assurance standards? In this session, Savvas Papandony shares the story of a growing transnational partnership between the Australian Academy of Commerce and BOYA Institute of Technology in China. This session offers a practical look at cross-border collaboration, stakeholder engagement, and the benefits of working towards NEAS endorsement for transnational delivery.

Savvas Papandony, Director of Studies, Australian Academy of Commerce

DOS ELICOS. Australian Academy of Commerce.

Curriculum, Syllabus, Assessment development in GE, EAP, IELTS. Curriculum and Syllabus design in GE and EAP for BOYA, Jiangxi University of Technology, Nanchang, China. Read more…

Whole-person and in-community learning and support as a basis for enabling student success

Supporting students means looking beyond academics: it’s about seeing the whole person. Join Jo Kwai, Ash Moor, and Jane Roberts as they explore what it takes to guide international students through complex educational pathways. Drawing on perspectives from different areas of ELT, this panel considers new ways to foster confidence, wellbeing, and success in every learner.

Jo Kwai, Manager, John Paul International College

Jo Kwai is a seasoned ELT specialist with extensive experience in teaching, curriculum development and coordinating across three sectors: primary, secondary, ELICOS in private and public institutions, and has also worked in the RTO environment across compliance, training and management.  Jo’s professional journey includes working at TAFE Qld, where she had diverse roles including ELICOS teacher, AMEP case manager, and TESOL Trainer and assessor for Diploma and Certificate IV courses. Read more…

Ash Moor, Academic Manager, UQ College

Ash Moor has family connections into Wakka Wakka country and grew up in Toowoomba, Queensland. Ash commenced teaching in TAFE Tasmania on the AMEP in 2003 before working for the British Council in Santiago, Chile. On his return to Australia in 2008, he taught, coordinated and managed in a number of Brisbane language colleges before moving into the pathways and enabling education space.  Read more…

Jane Roberts, RTO Director, Sarina Russo Institute

Jane Roberts is the RTO Director at Sarina Russo Institute, where she oversees the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and ELICOS operations. With an extensive background in ESL teaching and management, Jane has been instrumental in driving the institute’s mission to provide high-quality education and training services. Read more…

Register here

Speaker Spotlight: Helping Students Feel Heard and at Home

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

What happens when students don’t feel like they belong? When they’re misunderstood, isolated, or unsure of their place in a new learning environment? This week’s Speaker Spotlight highlights sessions focused on community engagement and student support, to help students feel like they belong.

Community Engagement Through Language Projects and Outreach

In this session, Zoe explores how adults learn best when their experiences shape the learning process. Drawing on Malcolm Knowles’ andragogical principles, she demonstrates how real-world, problem-based language activities improve communication outcomes and encourage students to co-design their own learning goals, building confidence and a deeper sense of ownership in the classroom.

Zoe Repse, CGEA/ME Educator, Swinburne University of Technology

Teaching since 1979 across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. A dedicated workshop facilitator and speaker, Zoe is passionate about engaging EAL and literacy learners within the community.

Focused on motivating and boosting confidence in casual conversations with native speakers, through teaching Australian expressions, pronunciation, intonation, and colloquialisms. Read more…

Finding your place when you don’t belong

In “Finding your place when you don’t belong”, Leisl Bruhn, Jo Kwai, and Vanessa Newbery, share practical approaches to re-engaging disengaged students. From homestay and wellbeing initiatives to academic and pastoral care, these educators present best practice models for supporting young international students.

Leisl Bruhn, Dean of International Students, Ivanhoe Grammar School

Leisl began her teaching career in the East End of London whilst working and travelling overseas. Upon her return to Australia, she completed a Master of Education (Applied Linguistics) and has extensive teaching and leadership experience in the EAL field across primary, secondary, and adult sectors in both the state and private systems. Read more…

Jo Kwai, Manager, John Paul International College

Jo Kwai is a seasoned ELT specialist with extensive experience in teaching, curriculum development and coordinating across three sectors: primary, secondary, ELICOS in private and public institutions, and has also worked in the RTO environment across compliance, training and management.  Jo’s professional journey includes working at TAFE Qld, where she had diverse roles including ELICOS teacher, AMEP case manager, and TESOL Trainer and assessor for Diploma and Certificate IV courses. Read more…

Vanessa Newbery, Head of International Programs, Hills International College

Vanessa Newbery has been teaching at Hills International College since 2012, and has been Director of Studies in Hills Language College for over eight years. She is now part of the College Executive team in her role as Head of International Programs. 

Before joining Hills, Mrs Newbery worked around Australia and overseas in ELICOS, AMEP and LOTE (French) teaching roles. Read more…

Register here

Speaker Spotlight: Creating Cultures of Belonging Through Leadership and Peer Engagement in ELT

Posted on | by Silvia Loss

Creating spaces where students feel seen, heard, and valued is a leadership imperative. This topic lies at the centre of our next speaker spotlight at the 2025 NEAS Conference, exploring how leadership and peer engagement can create inclusive, student-centred environments where learners thrive.

Leadership in ELT: Creating Cultures of Belonging in University English Language Centres

Creating a sense of belonging is essential to student wellbeing and academic success. In this session, Zoe Hancock explores the role of belonging in the language learning journey. Backed by current research and student insights, Zoe shares eleven ways students experience belonging and offers practical strategies to build inclusive cultures in university English language centres.

Zoe Hancock, Lecturer (Teaching Scholar), Southern Cross University (SCU)

Zoe has been teaching English for over 25 years. After an early career pivot from accounting, Zoe began her teaching career in Japan.

She returned to Australia to complete a MA in Applied Linguistics at UTS and taught in a number of private colleges and university English language Centres in NSW and QLD across a range of courses including, General English, IELTS Prep, Cambridge prep, EAP, Direct-entry and Post-entry English and Academic language (PEAL). Read more…

Building Bridges – Fostering Belonging Through Peer-Driven Engagement in International Education

What does belonging look like from a student’s perspective? This panel discussion explores how peer-to-peer engagement and community-driven models shape a sense of inclusion, connection, and success for international students. The panel will present best practices in student communication, community engagement, and co-creation of content to amplify authentic student voices.

With expertise spanning student services, research, marketing, and international health, these industry leaders will share practical tips on building trust and connection through student-centred communication strategies.

Varsha Devi Balakrishnan, Head of Student Insights and Strategy, Voyage

Varsha Devi Balakrishnan is a dynamic leader in the international education sector, combining deep expertise in research with innovative approaches to address complex challenges.

Recognised globally as the 2024 PIEoneer Emerging Leader of the Year and the 2023 IEAA Tony Adams Rising Star, she has pioneered The Social Source, an AI-driven platform revolutionising data and sentiment analysis. Read more…

Emma Currie, Head of Marketing for ANZ & SEA, Pearson

Emma Currie is the Head of Marketing for ANZ & SEA, Pearson, responsible for English Language Learning including Institutional, Corporate and PTE. She has been a marketing professional in the education sector for over 15 years and has worked for Pearson since 2012.

With experience in a variety of marketing roles Emma has broad experience working with institutions, professional bodies, educators and students across the international education in Australia and South East Asia. Read more…

Debora Lima, National Student Services Director, ILSC Education Group

Debora has over 15 years of experience in customer service, student support, administration management, and leadership across education and financial services in Australia and Offshore.

Currently serving as National Student Services Director at ILSC Education Group, she leads a diverse team across multiple locations, ensuring high-quality student support and operational excellence. Read more…


Tatia Pittham, Head of International Health and Education, Allianz Partners Australia

Tatia brings over a decade of experience in private health insurance and financial services, leading to her appointment as Head of International Health & Education at Allianz Partners in August 2023. 

Her career began at Bupa, where she spent eight years in senior management roles, including Head of International Partnerships. She played a pivotal role in expanding Bupa’s presence in international markets across Australia and the UK, driving growth through strategic cross-border arrangements. Read more…

Register here

Congratulations to Indooroopilly State High School (SHS)!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

NEAS is pleased to celebrate the successful Quality Review of Indooroopilly State High School (SHS).

The review highlighted strengths across several areas, including well-structured curriculum design, experienced and TESOL-qualified teachers, and effective use of digital learning platforms. The school’s commitment to supporting student wellbeing was also noted, with dedicated HSP classrooms, an international student hub, and structured homestay arrangements.

Stakeholder feedback was positive, and the school’s ongoing commitment to quality improvement through its strategic planning was evident throughout the review process.

NEAS acknowledges the efforts of staff and leadership at Indooroopilly State High School in maintaining a supportive and engaging learning environment for international students.

March 2025

Congratulations to Impact English College Brisbane!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Impact English Brisbane Joins NEAS as a Quality Endorsed Member

NEAS is pleased to welcome Impact English College Brisbane as a newly Quality Endorsed Member following a successful Management Meeting.

Located in Brisbane’s CBD, the centre attracts students from Southeast Asia, East Asia, and South America, fostering a dynamic and multicultural learning environment.
Impact English Brisbane offers well-structured course pathways, supported by dedicated student advisors who guide learners throughout their studies. The centre’s facilities were also recognised for their functional design, with ample student spaces that enhance the overall experience.

Attendance monitoring processes comply with regulatory standards, and students benefit from structured progress meetings and individual feedback. The centre also provides after-class activities designed to develop study skills and cultural awareness.

As a registered Cambridge test centre, Impact English Brisbane offers students the opportunity to undertake internationally recognised examinations. The centre also engages in ongoing validation and moderation activities to ensure continuous course improvement, particularly for its in-house developed programs.

March 2025

Congratulations to Oxford International for the endorsement of their Oxford ELLT!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Congratulations to Oxford International Digital Institute on achieving NEAS endorsement as a quality product and service for their Oxford ELLT.

NEAS reviewed Oxford ELLT using Quality Area K of the NEAS Quality Assurance Framework, evaluating its underlying research, fulfilment of purpose, quality assurance processes, innovation, and contribution to the English Language Teaching (ELT) community.

This test was designed with the student experience in mind, ensuring a smooth and supportive test-taking journey. With 24/7 portal access, test takers have the flexibility to complete tasks at their convenience, while user-friendly interfaces, helpful resources, and dedicated support help them approach each module with confidence.

Advanced AI technology is leveraged to enhance the test experience, from dynamic test item progression to strong online security protocols. The responsive model ensures a fair and accurate assessment while keeping the test competitive and up to date through continuous item creation and expansion.

A combination of AI proctoring and expert human examiners ensures accurate and reliable results. Ongoing quality reviews and benchmarking keep the test relevant and aligned with industry standards, reinforcing its credibility and effectiveness.

March 2025

Congratulations to Impact English College Melbourne!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

Impact English College Melbourne Achieves NEAS Quality Endorsement

NEAS is pleased to announce the Quality Endorsement of Impact English College Melbourne. Centrally located on Bourke Street, Impact English College offers a dynamic and immersive learning environment with modern facilities, diverse course offerings, and a strong commitment to student support.

The recent Quality Review highlighted Impact English College’s well-structured curriculum and commitment to high-quality teaching and assessment. Students benefit from engaging and interactive learning experiences, with teachers incorporating diverse methodologies and assessment tools to enhance language development. The Centre’s English-Only policy reinforces immersion, and its unique Barista/Café English Course provides students with a specialised learning experience.

Impact English College is commended for its strong student support framework, including structured orientation sessions, welfare services, and personalised academic guidance. Students have access to a well-equipped campus, extracurricular activities, and a range of additional learning opportunities to complement their studies.

NEAS recognises Impact English College’s commitment to continuous improvement and its dedication to delivering quality English language education.

March 2025

Congratulations to Sun Pacific College (SPC) Cairns!

Posted on | by Ed Itor

NEAS Welcomes Sun Pacific College (SPC) Cairns as a Quality Endorsed Member.

NEAS is pleased to announce the Quality Endorsement of Sun Pacific College (SPC) Cairns. Established 25 years ago, SPC provides intensive English language programs in a unique campus-based learning environment in northern Cairns.

The recent NEAS Quality Review highlighted SPC’s structured approach to course delivery, assessment, and student support. The Centre offers General English courses from Beginner to Advanced, as well as IELTS preparation and Cambridge FCE/CAE programs. A strong focus on assessment alignment with learning outcomes was observed, along with an integrated online reading and journal program that supports students’ language development.

SPC provides a comprehensive student experience, including on-campus accommodation, recreational facilities, and structured study support. The Centre maintains a dedicated welfare framework to assist students with their transition to life and study in Australia. Regular stakeholder feedback is used to inform continuous improvement initiatives across teaching, administration, and student services.

NEAS congratulates Sun Pacific College on achieving Quality Endorsement and demonstrating a commitment to quality in English language teaching.

March 2025