Strengthening Estonian Playgroups and Language Learning Across Australia
On the third weekend of October, a 3-day professional development workshop was held for teachers from Estonian playgroups and children's camps across Australia. Hosted in Kingscliff, NSW, the event drew participants from active children's language groups in Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Newcastle, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, as well as representatives from the long-established Sõrve camp.
The workshop aimed to connect teachers from various cities, many of whom work independently, to exchange experiences and specialised knowledge, ultimately enriching the Estonian language and culture programs offered in playgroups. It also sought to enhance the confidence and professionalism of the playgroup educators, many of whom are taken on this role by passion, in delivering their sessions. The program included training sessions and presentations on early childhood pedagogy, engaging learning materials, effective teaching practices, and opportunities in language camps. Additionally, there was a video meeting with Merike Barborak, coordinator of the Estonian Schools Abroad Network from the Estonian Language Institute. Key discussion topics included the unfilled gap and challenges in teaching Estonian to school-aged children, the status of heritage languages in Australian society, the sustainability of children’s language groups, and broader community engagement in promoting the use of the Estonian language.
Another central aim of the gathering was to support the motivation and wellbeing of teachers and language group leaders, who bear a significant responsibility in maintaining regular, high-quality playgroup sessions.
As this was the first workshop of its kind in Australia, the schedule was dense and the discussions vigorous. While the short walk together along the ocean on the final day allowed only a short time for relaxation, the event provided an abundance of collegial support and inspiration.
If you are aware of any other active Estonian playgroups interested in joining our network of teachers, please contact the coordinator of Estonian language studies for the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia. You are also welcome to reach out if you are interested in starting a new language and culture playgroup in another region and would like guidance or additional resources.
Iti Connor
Council of Estonian Societies in Australia (AESL) – Coordinator of Estonian Language Studies
Iti Connor is an artist from Estonia who has been living in Australia since 2016. She runs the Estonian language and culture program at the Brisbane Estonian Playroom, and she also works as the coordinator of Estonian language studies at the Australian Estonian Societies Union. The teachers' professional development workshop was supported by the Estonian Cultural Foundation in Australia, the Council of Estonian Societies in Australia, the Estonian Language Institute, the Brisbane Estonian Society, and Sõrve Sõbrad – Sydney Estonian Parents' and Friends' Association.
Contact: eestikeel@eesti.org.au
