From global educator to Australian Learning Support Assistant
Lara’s journey from a seasoned educator in China to a pivotal role within the Australian education system is a great example of the adaptability of international professionals navigating new landscapes. Her story is also one of personal and professional growth facilitated by the life-changing Adult Migrant English Program (AMEP), an English language and settlement program funded by the Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs.
Lara’s initial foray into Australia in 2016 on a working holiday visa was filled with a variety of roles across Sydney, Darwin, and Alice Springs. Upon returning to China, Lara embarked on her teaching career, before deciding to return to Canberra in 2023, along with her husband.
Initially Lara enrolled in the AMEP at Canberra College, and commenced her English language study in the pre-employment stream. With her goal to get work in Australia, she then progressed into the Pathways to Work program, a part of AMEP under Settlement Language Pathways to Employment and Training (SLPET) that provides students with employment focused classroom tuition and it is contextualised to meet their needs and goals.
The program offered more than just vocational training; it provided a sense of belonging and purpose.
“The course helped me to realise that being a learning support assistant could be a good start to my career in Australia. Since the course started, I am no longer alone sitting in front of a computer and seeking job opportunities anymore. Everyone in the course had the same purpose as me: to get employed! I found friends to talk to, and listen to their thoughts,” Lara shares, emphasising the community and solidarity she found within Navitas.
“The [AMEP] course helped me to realise that being a learning support assistant could be a good start to my career in Australia.”
Lara – AMEP, Canberra
Guidance from dedicated trainers played a crucial role in her journey, offering personalised support and practical learning opportunities.
“My trainer Michael listened to me, knowing that I plan to be a learning support assistant in public schools, and he advised me to learn by doing. This meant I could practise as a teaching assistant in this course. We learnt how to prepare resumes for specific job,” she said.
“We practised all different kinds of interviews including panel interviews, video interviews and group interviews.”
Lara says she’s still learning about Australian culture every day.
“The best thing about the AMEP is that for every new migrant, no matter what level of English, it is possible to find a course. It helps us become capable of living independently.”
Lara’s commitment and hard work paid off when she secured a position as a Learning Support Assistant (LSA), a testament to the effectiveness of the Pathways to Work program.
“Yes, I have found a job! I became more confident to offer help to others because I learned how to support others in the Pathways to Work course, and practised communication skills for community service purposes,” Lara says.
“Yes, I have found a job! I became more confident to offer help to others because I learned how to support others in the Pathways to Work course, and practised communication skills for community service purposes.”
Lara – AMEP, Canberra
Beyond her employment, Lara’s dedication to education and community service continues to shine through her volunteer work.
“Now I am also a volunteer tutor at Navitas, helping an elderly lady to learn English. I also supported her in accessing community services.”
Looking ahead, Lara is not resting on her laurels. “I plan to study Primary Teaching at the University of Canberra in August of 2024 so that I can restart my teaching career in Australia and apply my skills,” she says, outlining her aspirations for the future and her determination to further her education and professional standing in Australia.