Jaqueline (Jaqs) Wilton from English Language Partners Porirua.
Jaqueline (Jaqs) Wilton heads English Language Partners Porirua. Jaqs has an impressive background in ESOL (English as a second language) and working in developing countries.
ELPP is one of several organisations around the country whose mission is to teach English to refugees, migrants and asylum-seekers. They also provide social support to speed the settlement of the arrivals into the community.
New arrivals who have no or little English face huge challenges and can become marginalised or isolated. Refugees, defined as those who are fleeing persecution in their own countries, tend to arrive with few possessions and little education, but they are energetic and resilient.
The ELPP Trust is a registered primary training organisation currently working with 170 refugees and 120 migrants, coming from 41 ethnic backgrounds. They have 24 staff and 60 volunteers.
There are multiple threads to ELPP’s training which cater for different levels of accomplishment and the circumstances of the refugees.
NZ Certificates in English Language are offered, which can lead into tertiary studies or the workplace. At the beginner level there are ‘mums and tots’ groups, and home tutor volunteers who visit 70+ families for a couple of hours each week.
New Zealand has a commitment to accept refugees, and a less formal obligation to help them settle and become productive. The ELPP is working at the sharp end of this task, going about its business quietly and effectively.
Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.
Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.
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64.5% Yes
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32.9% No
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2.6% Other - I'll share below
Desperately seeking bottle fed calf as friend for ours.
Hi, we have 1 very lonely calf which was abandoned by its mum. We are looking for a companion calf, still being bottle fed so our wee one isn't alone. This is urgent. Thank you.
What's your favourite recipe for gooseberry?
Love gooseberries? Share your favourite way to enjoy them. We're looking for our readers' favourite family recipes for this delicious crop. Send yours to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the magazine, you will receive a free copy of our December 2024 issue.