LANGAUGE Other Than English teacher Rina Kerrins has scored a Federal Government Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowship to further her development in the teaching of culture and language.
Ms Kerrins, who works part time at St Peter’s School, Rochedale and at Mother Teresa’s School, Ormeau, has been proactive in promoting Indonesian culture and language, as well as her normal lessons, in both schools.
She applied for and received funding for Action Learning Projects at both schools to investigate better ways of teaching languages from Prep to Year 7.
In a letter received from Federal Education Minister Christopher Pine, he commended Rina on her commitment to language teaching in schools.
He said he hoped the professional learning experiences she gained through participating in the program would be both interesting and rewarding.
The fellowships provide an opportunity for practising, retraining or a pre-service language teacher, to improve language skills and gain valuable cultural experience through a fully-funded, three-week in-country study program in one of 10 countries.
Participants gain new knowledge and skills, and an increased understanding of target languages and cultures; an opportunity to network with fellow language teachers from around Australia and help strengthen linkages between schools and other countries
Ms Kerrins has networked with a wide range of LOTE teachers from both Education Queensland and Catholic schools to share resources and knowledge.
She also helps prepare performances for assemblies, parish events and special occasions.
She has also organised a combined performance of Indonesian songs with St Joseph’s School, Beenleigh at their Multicultural Mass.
