News

In partnership with Inner West Council and The Ashfield English Conversation Program, Metro Assist has managed to continue the program online despite the challenges of COVID-19. Every Monday morning, up to 25 participants take part in an English conversation lesson via WeChat.

This pivot from face-to-face teaching to online teaching has been well received by community members who previously attended the English conversation program People Speaking at Pratten Park and the Ashfield Civic Centre. Not only has this kept the program alive, it has added a new and valuable dimension to learning. Participants are able to review the lessons at any time which is facilitating more practice between classes. The participants also greatly value the fact that they can join in the safety and comfort of their own homes.

The WeChat program has also provided a valuable mutual support platform during this challenging period. Everyone looks forward to connecting with each other and sharing their news. The lessons focus on useful, daily English conversations and the topics are selected by the participants, mostly the newly arrived subclass 173 and 143 visa holders of Chinese background.

Cooking, staying healthy, visiting a healthcare provider, shopping and daily routines are some of the topics covered so far. With no immediate plans to return to face-to-face classes, program participants are delighted to be able to continue to make progress with their English. It is wonderful that we have been able to continue to support our diverse communities in Inner-West during this difficult time.