Demand for popular free service outstrips volunteers
28 March 2007
For immediate release 28 March 2007
Contact: Claire Szabo Larsen (04) 471 2382 or (021) 057 8380
Demand for popular free service outstrips volunteers
A language tutoring service for migrants and refugees is so popular that there are not enough volunteer tutors to meet demand in Wellington, the Hutt Valley, Auckland or Christchurch. About 900 would-be learners are waiting for tutors nationwide.
Migrants and refugees being tutored in New Zealand English were virtually unanimous in their satisfaction with the service, says a report released today by the National Association of ESOL Home Tutor Schemes.
"Virtually all of the language learners surveyed felt their English had improved after working one-to-one with a volunteer home tutor for an hour a week," said chief executive Claire Szabo Larsen. "That improved language ability has helped some find jobs. For others, the bonus has been better access to healthcare and community services."
The study confirmed anecdotal evidence that home tutoring was effective in helping migrants and refugees become part of the community."
Research report highlights:
Overall Outcomes
*98% were satisfied with their home tutor service
*94% identified improvement in their English
Economic Outcomes
*22% had found employment
*Another 13% were receiving help searching for a job
*11% had moved into further education
*22% experienced increased access to healthcare
Social Outcomes
*19% reported increased access to the community (e.g. library, post office, bank)
*13% learned how to use public transport or worked on their driver's license
*15% reported better orientation in their new city
*9% noted increased cross-cultural understanding
*4% specifically mentioned better communication with neighbours
Forty-six migrants and refugees who received tutoring through ESOL Home Tutors Wellington were interviewed.
"We were aware of the positive feedback we regularly hear from learners, but even we were surprised at the incredible effectiveness reported about this simple and inexpensive service," Larsen said.
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