To say that 2020 has been an incredibly challenging year is an understatement, but it has also shown the resilience and resourcefulness of our sector and member colleges. I have been saddened by the closure of a few long-standing member colleges this year, member colleges that were quality colleges by all accounts and were highly successful before the pandemic.
Alongside these closures, many teachers and support staff have lost their jobs because of the steep decline in student numbers. I recognise the impact this has had on individuals and colleges, and we are working hard to ensure our sector survives and can rebound as soon as possible. I truly hope we do not lose the talent, experience and dedication of these individuals for the long-term.
Looking towards 2021
Border reopening
We might easily fall into pessimism given the lack of industry recognition throughout 2020. The Government’s focus has clearly been on returning Australian citizens this year, but English Australia will keep pressuring government to ensure that our students are valued and return as quickly as possible.
We continue to advocate for state/ territory and federal governments to adopt our ‘Safe Travels’ pilot program in partnership with goPassport. I meet regularly with state/ territory and federal governments to refine this initiative so that our submissions align with the requirements of each jurisdiction and will advise you of any new developments.
Sector support
Our sector is hurting, and we are urging the government to recognise how vulnerable we are and will continue to be until borders reopen at scale. A critical aspect of our advocacy in 2021 will be around dedicated financial support and employment assistance via JobKeeper’s extension/ expansion to all ELICOS colleges, whether they are a private colleges or university-based colleges. I understand how perilously close many of our member colleges are to closing, and we want to assure you that we are doing everything possible to prevent this and further job losses.
The future of ELICOS
Our sector has adapted and innovated beyond belief this year. I’ve had countless discussions with members on what the future will look like. Commencing in early 2021, English Australia will lead a series of forums that engage members, our regulators, and government agencies to discuss where we go from here. We need clear direction on the sector’s future and we must ensure our policy and regulatory frameworks are aligned. We will announce these events early in the new year and look forward to working with you on this important process.
Renewing our Memorandum of Understanding with TEQSA
Meeting with members at our Branches
Engaging with members via our branch meetings is always a highlight of my role. It was great to see many of you virtually again and I wish I could have joined those states that met face-to-face and shared some social time. In these troubling times, the relationships that we hold are ever so critical. I was delighted to join the NSW members at their meeting. While virtual meetings have and will continue to serve us well, I am looking forward to meeting face-to-face again in 2021 when the opportunity arises.
Recognising the value of data
You may have noted our increased media coverage through mainstream media this month. The ability to reference the 3rd Quarter ELICOS Market Insight survey data, showing a 74% decrease in student numbers and students weeks, has been incredibly powerful and adds significant weight to our calls for support. This is only possible due to your participation. With 112 colleges participating in the Q3 survey, the data is valid and credible. The team from Bonard will begin collecting data from Q4 mid-January 2021. I hope that you can again help us with collecting this data, which contributes greatly to our lobbying in the new year.
Supporting the sector with ongoing professional development
This year, we have seen record numbers of participants across our PD offerings as we’ve aimed to deliver content and sessions aligned with evolving needs. With the election of a great group of SIG convenors and deputy convenors, a review of our CPD Framework, the launch of the next round of our Action Research program coupled with a plethora of webinars and workshops on the horizon – our 2021 program promises to be even better!
Thank you and best wishes
I would like to sincerely thank all our Board, member colleges, corporate affiliates and external partners for your support during 2020. I hope that you can spend time with family and friends during the festive season. We will have a lot of work to do in 2021, but for now, spending quality time with those who matter most will surely invigorate us to continue to fight for the welfare of our sector. Take care and best wishes!
