RMIT English Worldwide (REW) was pleased to collaborate with the Australia-Thailand Institute (ATI) to deliver a Teacher Professional Development program in Thailand in April and May this year.

REW sent a teacher trainer from Melbourne to deliver the four week program, which focussed on developing communicative methodologies and improving English proficiency.

Participants were teachers of English from institutions in the south of Thailand. They were introduced to interactive classroom techniques to expand their repertoire of teaching skills and their feedback indicates that the program was of great benefit.

The ATI funded the project as part of Australia’s commitment to education in Thailand. Officials from Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade in Bangkok were strategic in the coordination of the program and visited the classes during the program as representatives of the ATI.

The recent civil unrest in Bangkok did not disturb the program, although changes to the original plans were required. Staff and participants showed great flexibility in moving to REW Bangkok’s Rangsit Campus in Future Park. Thanks to the help of REW Bangkok staff, the participants were still able to access the same facilities and a fully equipped self-access centre.

A follow up seminar is planned for later this year, so that the participants can review the new strategies with their REW trainer.

Trainer, Lisa Jenkins, with program participants.