Alphington Grammar opens doors for new Greek students

Melbourne's Alphington Grammar School has seen an increase in enrolments of Greek students whose families recently decided to leave Greece and move to Australia.The secular institution, which provides primary and secondary education, has already welcomed 13 children to the school this school year, with 20 more students to be enrolled at the start on 2013.
Alphington Grammar representative Judy Fetter said the school has noticed a marked increase in the number of students coming to the school from Greece.
"The economic crisis in Greece has pushed a lot of families to move overseas for a different lifestyle and for their children's education," she said.
Ms Fetter added that many families choose Australia and Melbourne in particular as they have existing family or friendship ties in the community, which helps parents as they uproot their lives in Greece and move into what is for most families, an entirely new environment.
New students from Greece generally know some English, having learnt it in their schools in Greece, but English as a Second Language (ESL) classes are provided for students needing additional help with language. Students having difficulty settling in are assigned to a "buddy" as part of the 'Buddy Program' or an older student as part of a peer support programs.
"The school also becomes a way for students and their parents to connect with the wider community," Ms Fetter said. "We can give advice on everyday things like hairdressers, dentists, doctors and where to shop."
Understanding that children's education is often one of the main reasons families move overseas, the school tries to make the transition to a new environment as smooth as possible. School staff are available to contact via email correspondence to make sure new students' needs will be met, and to discuss ways any financial burdens can be eased.
"We understand some families are under extreme financial stress. Families can apply for financial consideration, which we will evaluate individually depending on different circumstances," Ms Fetter said.
Alphington Grammar continues to aim at maintaining and strengthening their students' Greek ties. Greek language is a compulsory subject until Year 10 and Hellenic culture and traditions are celebrated throughout the school year.