Inter-act Program 2017
16 IEC students participated in the InterACT program in partnership with Optus. InterACT is designed specifically for recently arrived, high school-aged migrants and refugees whose first language is not English. Students in the program were supported in gaining the cultural and vocational literacy they needed to participate in Australian life.
The emphasis of the program was on soft skills such as communication and building relationships but there was also a critical socialisation aspect to the program as the students involved learned to sustain adult conversations in English with a positive role model outside their immediate community.
The program involved students travelling to Optus for six facilitated sessions. Students were placed into groups with two mentors matched to four or five students. The program was coordinated by Ms. Yawanis.
Multicultural Playwrights Program
Lurnea Intensive English Centre participates each year in this highly engaging and interactive program which is run by the Arts Unit of NSW DEC specifically for students from a refugee and multicultural background.
The program gives an opportunity for students interested in drama to share their own stories and work with professional theatre teachers and students from other schools whilst developing skills in literacy, script-writing and performance. The students' original work is performed for a live audience and often live-streamed on the internet as well.
Following this program, IEC students have gone on to perform at State Drama Festival or smaller festivals such as the Ultimo Drama Festival.
Please visit Multicultural Playwright 2017 for more information.
Inter-IEC Oratory Showcase
Every year in term 4, one IEC is nominated in hosting the Intensive English Centre Oratory Showcase at their centre. Students who display public speaking skills are encouraged to take part in this event. A panel of judges makes the judgement and annoucnes the winner.
The speakers are provided with support prior to this event. They will be trained how to speak clearly, use of palm cards, eye contact, voice modulations and even actions.
Some centres also provide entertainment and delicious lunch for all guests and students.