Bankstown Intensive English Centre
The Bankstown Intensive English Centre (IEC) provides an intensive English language program for newly arrived students learning English as an Additional Language or Dialect and who are aged between 17-21 years old. Students must enrol at the IEC within 6 months of their arrival in Australia. Students may be migrants, refugees or international students.
Students develop their English language skills, become familiar with the Australian school system and build the confidence needed to succeed in mainstream schooling.
The program usually runs for 9–12 months, depending on individual needs, before students transition into mainstream classes at Bankstown Senior College.
Students come from a range of cultural and language backgrounds and are supported by staff working closely with families, schools and external agencies to ensure a smooth transition into mainstream education.
A welcoming and supportive environment helps students settle into school life and build confidence in their new learning environment.
For more information about Intensive English Centres and how they support newly arrived students, visit the NSW Department of Education website.
The Bankstown IEC supports students from across Sydney.
Students attending the centre, transition mainly to Bankstown Senior College into Preparation classes, Year 10 or Year 11 when they are ready to move into mainstream classes.
For more information about transition pathways, please contact the IEC.
Referrals to the IEC are made through the NSW Department of Education or local schools.
All students and families should contact the IEC to arrange an enrolment appointment before attending. Staff are available to assist with enrolment enquiries throughout the year.
How to enrol
Students/families who are Australian or New Zealand citizens or permanent residents can complete the online enrolment application.
If you are unable to enrol online, you can complete the Application to enrol form and submit it to the school (via email or in person).
For more information, visit:
Students/families on temporary visas can find information about eligibility and application requirements through the Temporary Residents Program.
Students participate in an intensive English language program designed to develop communication, literacy and learning skills.
The program supports students to build confidence using English while continuing their education in a supportive learning environment.
Students follow a structured daily program that includes English language lessons, classroom learning and opportunities to participate in school activities.
Students build skills in:
- English language development
- speaking, listening, reading, writing and viewing
- classroom learning and activities
- understanding Australian school routines
Students are also supported to participate in school life and build connections within the school community. This may include excursions, cultural activities and opportunities to participate in school events.
These experiences help students feel confident and connected as they prepare to transition into mainstream schooling.
Regular attendance is important to support student learning and progress throughout the program.
Student and family support
The IEC works closely with students and their families to support wellbeing and successful engagement with school.
Staff provide guidance to help students adjust to school life and build positive relationships with teachers and peers.
The centre communicates regularly with families about student learning, progress and school activities.
Support may include:
- student wellbeing support
- orientation to Australian school systems
- links with local community services
- school psychologist
- breakfast club (7:45 am - 8:30 am)
Multicultural support
We recognise and value the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students and families.
Support may include:
- interpreters
- community language support
This support helps families communicate with the school and stay connected with their child’s learning.
Call, email or visit us
Our office is open Monday to Thursday [8am to 3:30pm] during school term. For enquiries about enrolment, please contact our IEC.
bankstownc-i.school@det.nsw.edu.au
Care of Bankstown Senior College,
49 Eldridge Road,
Bankstown NSW 2200
