LOGAN'S immigrant and refugee mums have taken to a TAFE program teaching English at home like ducks to water.
The Adult Migrant English Program, which is funded by the federal Home Affairs Department, helps migrants and refugees with up to 510 hours of free English classes.
For mothers who are breastfeeding or prefer to care for children at home, it can prove difficult to consistently attend classes on campus.
AMEP case manager Melissa Noble said to overcome this barrier, TAFE Queensland had launched community and online English classes for Logan mothers.
"We identified a need for classes that cater to mothers who are currently breastfeeding or prefer to provide care at home instead of childcare," Ms Noble said.
"It's easy for them to fall behind in their studies due to family responsibilities, and these tailored classes make learning English accessible and suitable to their lifestyle."
In the Logan area, 31 women logged on from their homes to take part in online English classes.
She said the community-minded initiative had been embraced by students.
Team leader Anushka Weerackody said the women praised the supportive environment, and breastfeeding mothers found the new delivery format more convenient while caring for newborns.
"We structure sessions around different aspects of family daily life-such as health, housing, and shopping-and vital information and support services for mothers in Queensland," she said.
"It's a breath of fresh air for mothers navigating a new culture, new community, and new language.
"Already, the new classes have seen students forge new social circles, gain confidence, and continue their English language development without disruption."
For more information about the Adult Migrant English Program visit tafeqld.edu.au/amep.
