Working with refugees and migrants has been the most enriching experience of teacher Jasmine Rahman’s career.
Having recently commenced her role as teacher of the Adult Migrant English Program with STEPS Education and Training, Jasmine said that each day was a new day of discovery.
“Teaching is like a journey of learning to me. While meeting new people, I do not only teach them but also I learn a lot from them. That is how I rediscover myself every day,” she said.
Originally from Bangladesh, Jasmine emigrated to Australia in 2012 to study at university achieving her bachelor degree and Masters in Research.
With aspirations to complete her PhD and teach at university, Jasmine took on the role with the not-for-profit organisation to gain valuable experience teaching adults from a diverse range of backgrounds.
Having come from a non-English speaking background herself, Jasmine believes her experience has given her a unique perspective and insight into some of the challenges her current students face in moving to a new country.
“I feel happy when I can teach them about lives in Australia and make them a bit more comfortable and confident in dealing with real life situations and settling down in Australia,” she said.
“Learning about these refugees’ and migrants’ lives, their good and bad experiences in life, their perspectives about life is the amazing part of my job”.
STEPS Education and Training are currently looking for teachers as passionate as Jasmine to help refugees and humanitarian migrants learn English, along with other important skills for future study, employment, and successful settlement in Australia.
National training manager Joel Stevens said there were several opportunities on offer for permanent and casual teachers, as well as volunteer support staff keen to give back to the community and develop their tutoring skills.
For those considering applying for a teaching role with STEPS, Jasmine has some thoughtful advice;
“Mix a spoon of love and respect with your role and take some lessons from their experiences as much as you can”.
To find out more about becoming an AMEP teacher and to apply visit https://edutemps.com.au/jobs/amep-teachers-permanent-and-casuals-601549/
