A free English language course is being offered to Central Otago staff in the primary sector and their family members to whom English is their second language.

The free courses will be delivered online, four evenings a week over four weeks, and will be offered at two levels depending on English competency.  

The courses will have a specific focus on the primary sector and will get underway on 21 June.  

The courses are pilots to ascertain demand for the establishment of a full-length online English language programme.   

The initiative developed out of discussions with representatives from PrimaryITO, DairyNZ, CODC, REAP and the Southern Lakes English College around ways to support migrant workers in our primary sector.

“Farming is becoming more and more technical, and clear communication is vital. So everything that we can do to help improve the English skills of staff is a real win for the sectors,” PrimaryITO Training Advisor Vicky Bowman says. 

Central Otago Mayor Tim Cadogan says it was great to see the initiative underway.

“Migrant workers and their families are a significant and valued part of our community. 

“I hope that the English language skills gained through the course not only help participants in their work but also in their feeling at home in our community.”

Southern Lakes English College, which is owned by the Southern Institute of Technology, will develop and deliver the course. 

“It has been great working with the group to understand the opportunity and have the support to move quickly to setup and trial a programme,” Southern Lakes English College Chief Executive Bharat Guha says. 

To register or for more information contact: [email protected] or ring 0800 ENGLISH.