More migrants to benefit from support to learn English in New Zealand

Being able to communicate effectively in English is vital for students’ sense of wellbeing and belonging, as well as being vital for them to succeed with their education, Minister Salesa says.

More children and young people who migrate to New Zealand will benefit from specialized support to learn English, thanks to a $13.2 million increase in funding announced today by Associate Education Minister Jenny Salesa.

Being able to communicate effectively in English is vital for students’ sense of wellbeing and belonging, as well as being vital for them to succeed with their education, Minister Salesa says. 

“Overseas research shows that children and young people who don’t speak English need to be targeted, intensive support so they can access the curriculum. Mainstream teaching in a classroom with other students just isn’t enough on its own.

“English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) provision in schools also includes encouraging and nurturing students’ first languages. Research shows that students who maintain a strong first language have a better chance of succeeding in English.

“In New Zealand, studies show that migrant students who receive our ESOL support achieve NCEA Level 2 to the same extent as students who are native speakers of English.

“Succeeding at school makes it easier to gain further qualifications and meaningful employment. For refugee and migrant families, having their children happy and successful at school also reduces stress.

“Today’s announcement of an additional $13.2 million in new funding follows the extra $34.5 million allocated for ESOL in Budget 2018, bringing the total increase to $47.7 million.  These increases will help us meet increased demand in primary and secondary schools.

“We currently support around 49,000 school pupils from 162 different ethnic groups with our high-quality ESOL programs. This is expected to increase to 62,000 learners by 2023,” Jenny Salesa says.

(With Inputs from New Zealand Government Press Release)