Who we are
The Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland (ESAQ) is a not-for-profit, community-driven organisation dedicated to promoting language and cultural education for all students regardless of their ethnic background.
ESAQ’s members are Community Language Schools (CLS) that offer essential after-hours language education. As a vital part of Queensland’s multicultural fabric, ESAQ and its CLS members actively educate and preserve the linguistic heritage and cultural identity for a wide range of Culturally and Linguistically Diverse communities.
ESAQ works in close collaboration with both the Queensland Department of Education and Community Languages Australia to support all CLS across the state. The Education Department partially provides funds and insurance to some CLS, while Community Languages Australia offers professional training for CLS teachers.
As a key member of the national peak body, Community Languages Australia (CLA), ESAQ actively contributes to national efforts aimed at strengthening the role of language education within Australia’s multicultural policy framework. This affiliation ensures that the voice and needs of Queensland’s ethnic schools are well-represented and recognized nationally.
ESAQ and its CLS members play a pivotal role in strengthening social cohesion within Queensland. Their activities are centred on building effective ethnic community networks, thereby creating substantial opportunities for cultural exchange and strategically facilitating successful integration into the broader Australian society.
Supported By
The Department of Education Queensland - Community Language Schools Program
Click here for more information
Message from the President
The Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland (ESAQ) is pleased to welcome you to our official website.
This platform has been designed to function as a central resource hub for the promotion and dissemination of information vital to community language education across Queensland.
We aim to offer information and opportunities for connection among our dedicated educators, students, and families. ESAQ remains committed to supporting all individuals involved in the crucial work of preserving and promoting linguistic and cultural diversity within our state.
ESAQ gratefully acknowledges The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek, Minister for Education and the Arts, for his ongoing commitment and dedicated advocacy for community language schools in Queensland. His continued support significantly furthers our collective objectives.
We also extend our deep appreciation to the Queensland Department of Education (DoE) and Community Languages Australia (CLA) for their consistent support. Collaboration with the DoE and CLA has played a vital role in strengthening the community language sector, and ESAQ looks forward to ongoing partnerships that will continue to benefit our schools and students.
Thank you for supporting ESAQ and contributing to the success of the community language
sector. We sincerely hope this website serves as a valuable resource as you continue to foster the appreciation and growth of language and culture.
We invite you to explore the wide range of resources, news updates, and event information available here. Whether you are seeking guidance on curriculum development, professional learning, or simply wish to connect with like-minded educators and families, ESAQ is here to assist. Please feel free to reach out to us with any queries or feedback, as we strive to continuously improve and adapt this platform to best serve the needs of Queensland`s diverse communities.
Sincerely,
Dr Rafiul Alam
President
Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland
