The need for English tutors for migrants is growing in the North West region of Melbourne says the Melbourne AMEP (Adults Migrant English Program), particularly in with the advent of the COVID-19 measures that have increased social isolation.

The Melbourne AMEP’s Community Liaison and Engagement Manager Carole Pondevie-Lay said many new arrivals to the region were looking to connect with the wider community and to practise their English.

“Due to the coronavirus situation, much activity continues to be undertaken remotely via digital platforms but slowly face to face is re-commencing via ‘walk and talk’ sessions,” said Ms Pondevie-Lay.

She said that Melbourne Polytechnic hosted a Volunteer Tutor Scheme (VTS) within the AMEP which recruits and trains volunteers within the community to support recently arrived refugees and migrants. The volunteers help the learners under their charge to practice their English language skills and also learn about life in Australia.

“The programme started 70 years ago in Australia and is often the student’s first and only link to Australian communities and the English language,” said Ms Pondevie-Lay.

READ MORE: VMC: ‘When migrants do not take English lessons, it is because of other urgent needs’

Before the COVID-19 restrictions were put in place, tutors could visit their learners and interact with them directly. However, with the imposition of the restrictions, tutors could only drop off worksheets and communicate with their students electronically – and this had increased the learners’ sense of isolation.

With the easing of the restrictions, learners have a better chance to interact with their immediate communities and ease their sense of isolation. Ms Pondevie-Lay said the volunteers offered a way to help learners to socialize as well as improve their use of English.

For more information about how to volunteer to be tutor contact Ms Pondevie-Lay on (03) 9269 1861.