English as a Second Language

Certificates in English Proficiency provide English language skills to those from a non English speaking background. These courses provide a graduated progression towards English language proficiency, covering the four macro skills of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. In addition they provide vital knowledge and awareness of Australian cultural and societal attributes, issues and values in order to assist in a smooth transition to living in Australia. These courses may include preparation for further study, employment and career change. This can include supported work placements and vocational electives that allow students to experience components of other TAFE SA courses including Child Care, Aged Care, Food Processing and Hospitality. The Diploma of English Proficiency provides vocational and academic English language skills to overseas born professionals to enable them to apply for registration to practice in their chosen profession in Australia, and to students who wish to undertake further tertiary level studies. Note: Some VISA categories will not be eligible for this training at subsidised rates.

Certificates in Spoken and Written English are funded by the Department of Immigration and Citizenship as part of the Adult Migrant English Program for newly arrived migrants and humantarian entrants who meet the eligibiilty criteria. The courses enable them to learn English and settle in Australia and cover speaking, listening, reading, writing, learning skills and numeracy. The Preliminary Courses in Spoken and Written English provide support for those with minimum formal education.

The Program is flexible and provides a range of options for students as they begin their life in Australia, with face-to-face delivery, Distance Learning and volunteer Tutors at home. Classes are offered throughout the State on TAFE SA campuses and in community venues. Students will be able to prepare for life in Australia, further study and employment. The courses may include supported work placements and may be delivered in parallel with vocational certificates so that language development occurs in the context of the vocational field.

For those who do not meet the eligibility criteria for free courses, where available, they may undertake these courses at the appropriate rate (based on the VISA category).

Courses which are accredited meet the national standards as set down by the National Training Framework (NTF), the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) and National quality assurance requirements such as the Australian Quality Training Framework (AQTF). The courses are recognised throughout Australia and once you have finished your studies, by completing the relevant core and elective subjects, your efforts are recognised by achieving a qualification and receiving a formal parchment. Assessment is often conducted in real or simulated work places which measure your ability to perform competently in job focused outcomes.