English Conversation Group is an informal conversational group for immigrants living in Waiuku and surrounding districts who wish to improve their spoken English skills and get connected to more people in the community. English Conversation Group enables immigrants who have particular difficulty in integrating into the  community to connect to other people and gain confidence and self-esteem. It gives them a relaxed platform to make new friends cross-culturally, learn from each other and most importantly get a better understanding of New Zealand culture.

Anisha as part of her role as minister's assistant at St. Andrew's Centre recognises that the fear of speaking creates a huge stumbling block to immigrants, preventing many from integrating successfully into their local community and living to their full potential. This prompted her to establish an informal English Conversation Group. With the support of St Andrew's Community Trust and a team of volunteers, a comprehensive five-week programme evolved that includes lots of sharing, laughter and chatter. It has successfully run since 2017 (with some breaks due to Covid lockdowns).The group has a diverse group of people originating from a wide range of countries, cultural backgrounds and ages. All have two things in common – the desire to improve their spoken English skills and to make new friends.

Below is feedback from one of the course participants who travelled all the way from Port Waikato to attend this programme and improved her confidence!

“Thank you very much for wonderful classes. I could enjoy you and friends in Waiuku. I hope, see you again. I would love to come to the class next time too.”

For any queries or to register your interest, please contact St Andrew's Centre office or email .