As we approach the end of 2021, I continue to hold my cautious sense of optimism about the road ahead. December has brought what so many of us have been waiting for, the return of international students, and speaking with many member colleges, this is translating into new demand for ELICOS courses. However, we are only just starting on the path to recovery, and it is likely to take some time before we see students returning at volume.
The landmark ELICOS Sector Economic Impact research that we undertook in partnership with many State Governments this year, demonstrated the scale of the impact the pandemic had on our sector in 2020 and the flow on effects into other sectors in 2021. This research, coupled with the Quarterly ELICOS market Insight surveys that so many of our members support, have been critical in our advocacy efforts, showing how rocky our road to recovery will be.
I’m proud of the outcomes of English Australia’s advocacy over the past year. The sector regulatory and CRICOS fee waivers have provided tangible benefits to all members both this year and through until the end of 2022. The Innovation Fund 2021 has provided welcome support to expand course delivery online and offshore and will be soon supplemented by the recently announced Innovation Development Fund. We will provide an update on the Innovation Development Fund as soon as possible.
These support mechanisms were hard won by English Australia, but they offer solid foundations upon which the sector can begin its return to its pre-COVID successes, and beyond. Other wins such as the No Disadvantage ruling based on the Small provider category with DHA will also support the recovery efforts of many members.
Despite the incredible challenges that we have faced this past year, we have equally seen incredible innovation. The advances that our sector has made in online delivery will only enhance our already high-quality offer, adding another reason for students to learn English with Australian ELICOS providers.
English Australia’s Future of the ELICOS sector consultations this year have provided valuable insights into the evolving landscape of course delivery. We will release the interim report from the consultations in early 2022 and hold forums with DESE, ASQA and TEQSA to ensure the future regulatory environment will appropriately support high-quality ELICOS delivery aligned with the sector's capabilities.
This year, we diversified our research with strategic activities supported by our members and focused on raising the awareness of Australia’s ELICOS sector and its capabilities. This included the Transforming digital delivery of ELICOS in Thailand project that we led with Thailand’s Office of the Basic Education Commission (OBEC) and the Office of the Vocational Education Commission (OVEC) on behalf of the Department of Education, Skills and Employment. Our recent industry roundtable held as the culmination of the Partnering for Success – Education led engagement program undertaken through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) Australia – Vietnam Enhanced Engagement Grant provided unique insights into partnership opportunities for ELICOS providers to support Vietnam’s English language development. The report from this comprehensive research will be finalised this month. I would like to acknowledge our partnership with BONARD for their support with this project, the Annual and Quarterly ELICOS Market survey’s and our Annual Conference this year.
We have strived to deliver targeted professional development activities throughout the year. Our focus has been on making our activities online and accessible to everyone. This has led to record levels of engagement. Thank you to all our members and teachers who supported the Annual English Australia Conference, EdTech Symposium, Special Interest Groups and the numerous other professional development events that we have held throughout the year.
I would also like to acknowledge the Convenors and Deputy Convenors of our Special Interest Groups (SIGs). Membership of SIGs ballooned this year due to the valuable forums and activities led by these groups. Lastly, special thanks to our Journal team for delivering another two great editions.
It was great to catch up with everyone for our final branch meetings of 2021. I was also pleased to be able to attend the NSW branch meeting in-person and hear the optimism among many members at the prospect of students returning. I also noted some of the challenges that member colleges are finding, particularly around recruitment. English Australia’s job centre is a great starting point for posting any roles that you may have available or for searching for a role.
The English Australia Secretariat is saying farewell to Simon Lockyer, who has led our communications over the past four years. I would like to wish Simon well for his new endeavours.
We are now seeking applications from experienced candidates for the Communications role, so please spread the word.
I would like to acknowledge the dedication and support provided by the English Australia Board throughout the year. The Board met at the end of November and the member summary is available here. Congratulations to Ian Aird on his appointment to the Board.
Finally, thank you to all our member colleges, corporate affiliates, sponsors and supporters over the past year.
All the best for the festive season and I look forward to working with you in 2022.