Who we are
The Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland (ESAQ) Inc is a non-profit, community-driven organization dedicated to promoting language and cultural education for all students, regardless of their ethnic background. As a vital part of Queensland’s multicultural fabric, ESAQ’s members represent diverse language communities, offering after-hours programs that celebrate and preserve linguistic heritage and cultural identity.
In collaboration with Community Languages Australia (CLA), ESAQ advocates for the After Hours Ethnic Schooling (AHES) Program, which supports language schools across the state.
At the national level, CLA champions the AHES Program, representing all state and territory community language school federations, and working to strengthen the role of language education within Australia’s multicultural policy framework. Through its affiliation with CLA, ESAQ actively contributes to these national efforts, ensuring that the voice of Queensland’s ethnic schools is represented and recognized.
The AHES Program exemplifies a cost-effective partnership between government and community, fostering multicultural engagement and connection. ESAQ’s member schools play a key role in building networks within Queensland’s ethnic communities, creating meaningful opportunities for cultural exchange and facilitating integration within the broader Australian society.
Message from the President
Welcome to the refreshed website of the Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland (ESAQ). We are delighted to provide this platform to support the promotion and delivery of community language education across Queensland.
This new website reflects the vibrant contributions of our community language schools and serves as a hub for resources, information, and connection for educators, students, and families alike. It is our hope that it will inspire and empower all those dedicated to the invaluable mission of preserving and celebrating linguistic and cultural diversity.
ESAQ extends its sincere gratitude to the Queensland Department of Education and Community Languages Australia (CLA) for their unwavering support. Our partnership with CLA continues to strengthen the community language sector, and we look forward to many more opportunities to collaborate for the benefit of our schools and students.
We would also like to acknowledge The Honourable John-Paul Langbroek, Minister for Education and the Arts, for his steadfast commitment and advocacy for community language schools in Queensland. His support plays a vital role in advancing our shared goals.
Thank you for your continued support of ESAQ and for your meaningful contributions to the vibrant community language sector. We hope you find our new website a valuable resource in your efforts to nurture and grow the love of language and culture.
Warm regards,
Irene Bayldon
President
Ethnic Schools Association of Queensland
