Language program opens doors to work, study and the community

Today is the Ides of March, immortalised by Shakespeare in Julius Caesar – but how many people who will hear or read the term today know that in Roman times “ides” simply referred to the 15th (or sometimes 13th) day of the month?

It’s a reminder of how complex and rich the English language is – and just how difficult it must be for non-native speakers to master.

Through its Language, Literacy and Numeracy Programs (LLNP), Mission Australia aims to help people for whom English is second language to build up their verbal and written English skills, and in turn open doors to employment, study and community participation.

Catering for a wide range of backgrounds and ages, Mission Australia delivers this program in 40 city and rural locations. In the Sydney metropolitan area, women make up 70 percent of the 400 LLNP students.

Mission Australia Operations Manager Tom McKay said that LLNP not only provided students with the opportunity to go on to further study and employment, but it also helped them to form friendships and connect with the wider community.

“If you are unable to communicate effectively there can be a feeling of isolation within the immediate community and stronger language skills empower people to be able to get out and be part of the community,” he said.

“Many women in particular find LLNP a fantastic place to forge strong friendships and increase their learning in a very supportive environment that respects and incorporates a plethora of cultures.”

Shakti Sah-Raj, Mission Australia’s Manager LLNP in Bankstown, said one of the great joys of her job is seeing students build self-esteem and gain friends through the classes.

“One of our students, A’idah*, is a Sudanese refugee who has made good friends through LLNP,” said Ms Sah-Raj. “During the recent unrest in Egypt, she was not sleeping or eating well as she was so worried about her daughter in Cairo. Nevertheless, she always made it to LLNP to learn English. By talking to her classmates and her teacher, she said she gained the great comfort and support.”

She added that another student from a Greek background has never missed a day, despite recently being diagnosed with cancer: “She really wants to learn English and is determined to come to school everyday until her operation, and then she’ll be back in class. She’s an inspiration to everyone.”

LLNP students also include Australian-born native English speakers who may missed out of educational opportunities early in life, to those who may not be able to read and write in their own native language and overseas university graduates needing help with their English.

“In today’s society all should have the opportunity to compete on a fair and equitable basis and without the necessary numeracy, literacy and language skills many people will continue to face disadvantage,” added Mr McKay.

LLNP is a Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations program that is available to eligible jobseekers who want to increase skills in speaking, listening, reading, writing and maths. The program is available through Mission Australia in New South Wales, Tasmania, South Australia, Western Australia and the Northern Territory.

To find out more visit the LLNP page on the MA website or call 1300 MPOWER (1300 676 937). 

*Name has been changed