Intensive English Language Program

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 Connect and communicate with confidence

Intensive English Program

Seaton Park Intensive English Language Program (IELP) caters for students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who are learning English as an Additional Language. IELP works closely with students, their families, and other agencies as needed, to support students through the transition process involved in settling into a new school and culture.

Our school community embrace diversity and values the opportunity to build positive relationships with families who are new to the school.

Eligibility

To be eligible for IELP, students newly arrived in Australia, whose first language is not English, need to:

  • meet eligible visa conditions.
  • enrol within 18 months of arrival for students in Reception or year 1 and within 12 months of arrival for students in Years 2-6.
  • live within Seaton Park IELP’s designated catchment zone including: Albert Park, Findon, Flinders Park, Fulham Gardens, Grange, Hendon, Henley Beach, Kidman Park, Royal Park, Seaton, Tennyson, West Lakes, West Lakes Shore, Woodville South and Woodville West.

With approval, eligibility may also be considered for:

  • Australian citizens or children of Australian citizens if English is not their first language and they meet the criteria above.
  • Students born in Australia who speak English as an Additional Language and enter school for the first time needing to further develop their English language skills.
  • Students who have returned from overseas and have limited or no English.

Enrolment procedures

Enrolment involves completing the enrolment forms and a short tour of the school. A copy of the student’s passport, visa and proof of residency/address will be required.  

Interpreters may be available to assist upon request.

Teaching and learning

IELP’s aim is to prepare students for successful transition into mainstream schooling and assist them in building the confidence needed to engage with their new community in Australia. Students are supported optimise their learning and develop their English vocabulary through core or new concepts across the curriculum in small classes.  A range of teaching strategies is employed to engage students to effectively learn and apply their knowledge in different contexts.

The length of stay in an IELP depends on each student’s prior schooling and their level of English proficiency. Students generally stay in IELP for twelve months, or longer if needed. Whilst in the program, continuous assessment is undertaken to provide evidence of students’ development and their readiness to exit. Transition programs are organised so students can successfully continue their education in their chosen mainstream schools.

Interpreters, Bilingual School Services Officers (BSSOs) and Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) are also available to support families and students if required.

Integration

While actively engaged in developing their English at Seaton Park, students are further supported in preparation for transition to mainstream through integration with the rest of the school. This includes participation in assemblies, sporting activities, buddy classes, whole-school events and celebrations such as Harmony day, Reconciliation, NAIDOC or Book week.

Transport to school

While attending IELP, transport assistance may be available for students who:

  • have an eligible visa sub-class.
  • are under 10 years of age and
  • live more than 1.75 kilometres from Seaton Park IELP.

For more information or to enrol please contact the school on 8356 2422.