ES1-2 Multi-cultural Teacher Aide in Mildura

Location Profile

Mildura English Language Centre (MELC) is a campus of Mildura Senior College, located in north-west Victoria, approximately 545 kilometres from Melbourne. MELC provides a full-time intensive English language program for newly arrived migrant and refugee students from Prep to Year 10, aged 5 to 17 years. MELC's purpose is to equip students with the English language skills, knowledge and confidence needed to successfully transition into mainstream schooling or alternative education and training pathways, including TAFE. Through explicit English language instruction, students learn both in and through English while developing the academic, social and cultural skills required to thrive in Australian schools.

In addition to supporting students' language development, MELC works closely with families to build their understanding of the Victorian education system and life in Australia, fostering strong partnerships between home and school. Small class sizes enable teachers to provide highly differentiated instruction that responds to each student's individual needs. Curriculum planning is informed by students' prior educational experiences, age, English language proficiency and rate of language acquisition, ensuring learning is personalised and responsive. At MELC, we are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive learning environment where every student is valued and respected. We celebrate the rich cultural, linguistic and religious diversity of our community and promote equity for all, regardless of sex, ethnicity, race, religion or socioeconomic background. Our values of Persistence, Empathy, Aspiration, Community and Engagement underpin our teaching and learning, guiding the behaviours, attitudes and aspirations we seek to foster in every student.

Selection Criteria

• SC1 Capacity and experience to support teachers and students within intensive EAL programs across all year levels (P-10) at the Mildura English Language Centre.
• SC2 Demonstrated capacity to communicate effectively and build positive relationships with students, families, and school community members from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.
• SC3 Demonstrated proficiency in the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and digital learning tools relevant to assisting students with English as an Additional Language (EAL).
• SC4 A commitment to professional learning and growth.
• SC5 Proficient reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in both English and an additional language/s.

Role

Additional hours that may be required by this position are subject to the DET Time In Lieu arrangement. An education support class position at this range will perform tasks that are carried out in accordance with guidelines, accepted practice, and school policy under supervision and direction. This may include coordination of other education support class staff within the work area or educational program. An education support class position supports the educational services being provided to students but must not include duties of a teacher as defined in clause 2.6.1 of the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (Vic) or its successor. Supervision of students can be required individually or in groups up to 4 in controlled circumstances and where the responsibility for students remains clearly with a teacher.

Responsibilities

• Support student learning on an individual or group basis with direction from class teacher.
• Translate communication between teachers and non-English speaking students in the classroom.
• Support and translate communication between teachers and non-English speaking parents, e.g. during enrolment interviews and Parent/Teacher Conferences.
• Assist in the translation of school documents and resources, including utilising phone interpreting services.
• Prepare basic curriculum resources.
• Assist school in liaising with external support service providers, teachers, students, and their families.
• Support staff in student wellbeing.
• Where possible provide teachers with insight into students' cultural backgrounds and experiences.
• Literacy in Swahili language or a combination of languages is desirable.

General Skills

• Organise and time manage oneself and tasks.
• Work effectively in a team environment.
• Take direction and work independently.
• Communicate effectively with students, families and staff.
• Foster positive relationships with all members of the MELC community.
• Actively seek and participate in professional development.
• Participate in the Colleges performance and development processes in line with DET requirements.
• General duties as directed by the Principal within the requirements of ES1-2 dimensions of work as listed in the Victorian Government Schools Agreement 2022.

Other Requirements

• Individuals with the aptitude, experience and/or qualifications to fulfill the specific requirements of the position.
• Current Working with Children Clearance.
• First Aid is desirable.

Diversity and Inclusion

The department is committed to diversity and inclusion and developing a workforce that is representative of the community we service. We value diversity and inclusion in all forms - culture, gender, religion, ethnicity, LGBTIQA+, disability and neurodiversity. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander candidates are strongly encouraged to apply for roles within the Department.

Child Safe Standards

Victorian government schools are child safe environments. Our schools actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students, and all school staff are committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment, in accordance with their legal obligations including child safe standards.

Conditions of Employment

All staff employed by the Department and schools have access to a broad range of employment conditions and working arrangements. Appointment of successful applicants will be made subject to a satisfactory pre-employment conditions check. A probationary period may apply during the first year of employment and induction and support programs provided.