An informal meeting between QALEN signatories ‘NEAS’ (represented by Di Price) and ‘English New Zealand’ (represented by
Mark Hornby) in Wellington New Zealand established some fascinating similarities and some differences between ELT Centres in both countries relating to QA processes private and government sectors. Both the Australian and New Zealand agencies conduct Quality Assurance assessments, which are undertaken by trained ELT assessors.
Mark Hornby is located in Christchurch, and involved with both the NZQA and English NZ. He is currently working on Program Design with a team a team in Christchurch as well as involved in auditing ELT centres throughout New Zealand. We look forward to welcoming him again at this year’s NEAS Conference in May 2016 under the QALEN cooperation arrangement.
Areas of common interest that arose included verification of teacher qualifications, and the inclusion of the practice teaching component.
Due to the earthquake in Christchurch 5 years ago, the number of ELT centres has reduced in the region, although not in New Zealand overall. Di Price noted that the range and diversity of courses offered remained similar to those offered in Australia.
Both QA Agencies agreed that clear policies and procedures were priority areas and the need for informing staff of these was critical.