MSA Teacher Returns to ICFP in Timor-Leste as Four-Year English Language Learning Partnership Continues

In July, Sonja Brownridge visited Timor-Leste as part of the Marist Schools Australia Professional Language Learning Collaborative. She reflects on her experience and the connections she made during her time in Timor-Leste. Read more:

I recently had the privilege of returning to the Instituto Católico para a Formação de Professores (ICFP) in Baucau, Timor-Leste, as part of the Marist Schools Australia Professional Language Learning Collaborative for Timor-Leste. Now in its fourth year, the program continues to strengthen the partnership between volunteer teachers from Marist and other Catholic schools across Australia with the goal of supporting and enhancing the English language capabilities of admin and teaching staff at ICFP. 

Sonja with Elisa, ICFP Social Media and IT support officer and Virginia, ICFP Teacher

During this visit, I worked alongside dedicated ICFP staff who show such dedication to improving their English communication skills. Our lessons focused on practical spoken English, workplace communication, pronunciation, vocabulary development, and building confidence in everyday conversations. 

While developing English language proficiency remains the primary focus, the program is much more than language instruction. As teachers, we gain invaluable insights into the resilience, generosity, and educational practices of our Timorese colleagues. Working together provides opportunities to exchange ideas, reflect on teaching practice, and deepen our understanding of the cultural and educational contexts in which we each serve.

Sonja with Lucy and Aghostino, teachers at KATILOSA

While my mission was to teach English, I learned so much more. I learned the true meaning of "belun" - friendship. I learned about resilience, warmth, and the power of a smile that needs no translation. I might have come to share knowledge, but I left with my heart completely full, inspired by their energy, curiosity, and their incredible spirit.

My amazing students were challenged to keep practicing, ask questions, and never stop chasing their dreams. For they are the bright future of this beautiful country. These experiences deepened my appreciation of the rich traditions of Timor-Leste while reminding me that education is fundamentally about relationships and service.

KATILOSA staff with the new donations

The wider community of Marists in Baucau, Timor Leste are grateful for the following donations:

• Hundred books in the Tetun language were donated by previous participants of the program: Meg Owens, Sydney Catholic Schools; Anthony Moore, Marist College Canberra; and Wanieta Young, Parramatta Diocese. These were provided by Library for All to KATILOSA, a local non-government organisation dedicated to supporting children and young people with disabilities.

  
  

• These books will become an important resource for KATILOSA, providing students with greater access to engaging reading materials and helping to foster literacy, language development, and a love of reading. Access to quality books remains limited in many parts of Timor-Leste, making donations such as these invaluable for both students and teachers.

  
  

• Sacred Heart College donated five laptop computers, and Mary Mackillop College, Varrowville, donated two data projectors for teaching staff and physiotherapy staff at KATILOSA. These will be used to support inclusive education teaching and learning along with supporting community-based rehabilitation and Advocacy programs for children and young people in the Baucau municipality.

  
  

Sonja with the Aspirants

I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program and look forward to continuing to support my amazing students, now my Timor family, at ICFP through ongoing online sessions. The experience is a powerful reminder that while we may come from different countries and cultures, we are united by our shared Marist mission to educate, accompany, and serve. 

Obrigado, Barak.

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-Pic and words by Sonja Brownridge Sacred Heart College Adelaide