Teachers have always worn many hats: counsellor, nurse, time keeper, negotiator, cheerleader, tutor, detective, resource developer, comedian, drill sergeant, attentive listener, role model… I should go on, I feel like I am short changing the profession if I don’t, but I think you get my point.
Teachers of refugee students can find themselves out of their depths but there are many community services and information resources to assist teachers in providing purposeful and successful learning programs for their new students.
Ames Australia (http://www.ames.net.au/) is one of many organisations that offer programs, facilities and support for new Australians with the aim of helping them to settle in Australia. Their vision is “full participation for all in a cohesive and diverse society.” They can assist families in many ways from language acquisition to job security. They also help to provide families with mentors and community connections.
The Refugee Council of Australia (https://www.refugeecouncil.org.au) is a not for profit, charity run organisation that is “centred around five key areas: policy, support for refugees, support for its members, community education and administration”. They provide resources for teachers that assist them in supporting refugee students with access to community programs, planning of suitable lessons, selecting appropriate games and activities and providing links to general information.
Roads to Refuge (http://www.roads-to-refuge.com.au) “is designed to give students, teachers and the community access to relevant, factual and current information about refugees” by providing information and links to programs and resources that are available throughout the country.
The Space for Learning 