2024 WA INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION INITIATIVE OF THE YEAR – SCHOOLS

The CISWA WA International Education Initiative of the Year – Schools Award recognises the work of an individual or team in a Western Australian school that has contributed to the welfare, support or academic success of international students.  The initiative should enhance the student experience in the school and/or in the wider community.

This Award is sponsored by the Department of Education. The winner is presented with a certificate and trophy and $1000 to contribute to the program.

This award was not presented in 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

All applicants must be

  • a current CISWA member
  • a registered CRICOS provider
  • be endorsed by the principal of your school

2024 Key Dates

  • 23rd September– Applications Open
  • 1st November– Applications Close (5pm)
  • 20th November – Judging Completed
  • 5th December – All award winners announced at StudyPerth AGM and End of Year Event

Selection Criteria

In 1000 words or less provide a summary which outlines:

·            A description of your initiative – from its inception to its current form

·            What are the benefits for international students?

·            What are the benefits for the school/community?

·            What are the success factors and are they sustainable? i.e. preferably free of charge, well promoted.

·            Were there any hurdles and challenges you came up against and how did you overcome these?

Selection Criteria CISWA Int Education Initiative Schools Award document – any questions please email info@ciswa.com

This award is proudly sponsored by

2023 WA International Education Initiative of the Year Awardee – Schools: Lakelands SHS International Student Club

Joe Bontempo (left), Manager, International Education, Department of Education WA presented the WA International Education Initiative of the Year – Schools Award to Lakelands SHS Principal Catherine Baron. 

Congratulations to Simon Dober (Deputy Principal), Salome (Chaplain) and Nancy (School Health Nurse) for their hard work with our International Students ensuring they feel connected to the school while also providing them with opportunities immerse in Australian culture.

 

In 2022, Lakeland Senior High School initiated the International Student Club to address the challenges faced by one student struggling with language barriers and social isolation. This activated the establishment of a dedicated club, led by the Deputy Principal, School Chaplain, and School Nurse, to foster inclusivity, cultural understanding, and academic support.

The International Student Club meets weekly, providing a platform for students to engage in diverse activities structured across four terms:

  • Understanding Australians
  • Survival in the bush
  • Australian Wildlife
  • Cultural Harmony

Parental involvement was encouraged through two events, providing insights into the Australian school system and the Western Australian Health System, and bringing them into the school community.

Lakeland Senior High School’s International Student Club has not only addressed the initial challenges faced by one student but has also created a thriving community that promotes cultural understanding, academic success, and lifelong friendships among international students.

This makes them a very worth recipient of the WA International Education Initiative of the Year – Schools in 2023