Two new Intensive English Centres are set to be established in Western Australia, offering crucial support to primary school students who arrive in the state with limited English language skills. With a $12.3 million investment from the Cook Labor Government over the next four years, these centres at Ellenbrook Primary School and Atwell Primary School aim to give newly arrived children the tools they need to succeed in their new educational environment.
These new centres will add to the existing 14 Intensive English Centres that have been serving students since the 1970s. The long-standing program has been pivotal in helping newly arrived migrant and humanitarian entrant children, as well as some locally-born and international students, build the English language proficiency required to transition into mainstream schooling. Typically, students spend one or two years in these centres, where they receive focused language instruction tailored to their individual needs.
The introduction of the new centres comes in response to the rising number of migrants settling in Western Australia, particularly over the past two years. As migration numbers have increased, so too has the demand for English language support in schools. The two additional centres will provide much-needed places to accommodate this growing need, ensuring that more children have access to the language education that is vital for their academic and social integration.
The funding allocated to these centres will cover several key areas. Not only will each enrolled student receive targeted funding to support their language education, but there will also be allocations for specialist staff and smaller class sizes, which are essential for the intensive nature of the program. Furthermore, the funding will provide for school bus services, ensuring that students who live further away from the centres can attend without added logistical stress.
Education Minister Dr. Tony Buti highlighted the significance of this initiative, noting the positive impact it will have on the state’s culturally and linguistically diverse student population. By providing these students with intensive English tuition, the government aims to empower them to fully engage in their education and reach their potential as they adapt to life in a new country.
The Intensive English Centres have been a cornerstone of Western Australia’s approach to supporting migrant and refugee students for decades. These centres offer more than just language instruction—they provide a bridge between the students’ previous experiences and their new lives in Australia. The carefully structured programs help students develop the language skills they need, while also familiarising them with the Australian education system and culture. This comprehensive support is crucial in helping them build confidence and achieve academic success.
As the state continues to welcome new migrants, the expansion of these centres represents a commitment to inclusivity and equal opportunity in education. By ensuring that every child has the language skills necessary to thrive in school, the government is laying the foundation for their future success, both in the classroom and beyond.
The new centres are scheduled to begin operation at the start of the 2025 school year, marking an important milestone in the ongoing effort to support newly arrived students in Western Australia. With this investment, the Cook Labor Government is taking proactive steps to meet the needs of a changing population, ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have the chance to succeed in their new home.
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