RSM Pacific

A great youth initiative is on tonight! It's a free event and something meaningful for youth to learn from and deepen in their understanding on community and inclusivity. Parviz Deamer 🙏🏽💯📝

Some private entries I write when things feel heavy, there is no logic or thinking, it's just free writing...but when I look back I can see the meaning... what do you do when you feel overwhelmed with your feelings?

It’s been a while since my last communication on this platform, and I’ve been reflecting on the reason I started this page in the first place, to support those with Pacific and Māori heritage in strengthening their English writing and speaking skills. While the way I provide assistance has shifted from one-on-one sessions, I still respond where I see a genuine need and feel I can contribute meaningfully.

Over time, I’ve come to see that real progress doesn’t just depend on programs or resources; it ultimately comes down to the student, and the support they have around them. Having someone to walk alongside them, whether a mentor, teacher, or family member, can make all the difference in encouraging them and helping them build their skills and confidence.

To the students: strengthening your English; both in writing and speaking; opens doors, not only for exams and further education but also for expressing who you are and sharing your ideas with the world. It’s a skill that grows with practice, patience, and persistence. Even when it feels challenging, remember that every sentence you write and every word you speak adds to your growth. Keep going, believe in your voice, and know that your story matters.

Alongside strengthening English writing and speaking, it’s also important for students to build their 21st century skills; such as critical thinking, creativity, communication, and collaboration. These skills are essential for success not only in exams, but also in higher education, employment, and everyday life. To support this, I’ve included a handout that highlights practical ways students can develop these skills alongside their academic learning.

Thank you!
Cassandra Walton

Excited to share a highlight from the recent ‘Pacific Regional Workshop on Enhancing Teachers’ Skills’ held last week in Suva, Fiji!

Alongside Education Consultant Danielle Perfect and Dr. Fiona Willans, who leads the Linguistics Department at the University of the South Pacific, I had the privilege of presenting research on Language of Instruction. Our study drew from secondary-grade classroom observations and interviews with Principals and teachers across Kiribati, Fiji, Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Tonga, shedding light on the diverse teaching approaches and language use in these settings.

Our findings highlighted the frequent use of bilingualism or local languages by teachers to support student comprehension at the secondary level. Our language session at the conference sparked engaging discussions on the importance of language and culture, and the challenges faced when teaching English as a second language.

I am grateful for this opportunity and would like to thank the research team and country leaders for allowing us to share this research at the conference.

Grateful to be together again with the Ministry of Education, Kiribati Teachers College and CEDAK! All important leaders that I love being around because you teach me and motivate me so much. 🙏🏽🇰🇮

We are living proof that those from different backgrounds can be something too! We are not just educators; we are advocates for diversity, and the boundless potential that education unlocks.

Wanting math’s help this term? ☺️ let’s us help you!

Excited to kick off Term 1 with renewed energy! Our online tutoring sessions are back in full swing - tailored programs for success! 📚💯

In 2023, our path unexpectedly took us to the Pacific islands. When you believe for so long, the unexpected brings opportunity! 👏🏽🌏✈️

RSM, starting as a tutoring service, has grown in ways that we're still catching up with! 😆🙈 🙌🏽

This year, our amazing team of teachers dedicated their time to tutor and support students across Australia and the Pacific, and I'm truly grateful for their commitment.

We're truly grateful for your support during our quieter planting phase in the latter part of this year. Trust me, it's been busy, but we're eagerly anticipating what 2024 will bring from this work! 🤩

Now for 2024, where we eagerly anticipate our harvest!

Again, thank you for all your love. To every person I got to meet this year and work with, I’ll be forever grateful for our time together! ❤️✨

Love Cass and the RSM team

📚 💜⚡️

This morning, the Ministry of Education team and I are embarking on a journey to Kiritmati Island, flying directly across the ocean from South Tarawa.

Am grateful to work alongside my colleagues from ECE, Primary, and Kiribati Teachers College.

Grateful for these professional opportunities in our respective fields, there's a lot of hard work ahead, but I'm confident it will be rewarding. ✅📝

"Opportunity abounds. The key is cultivating the vision to seize it." 🫶🏽🙏🏼 Line Islands here we come!

When I was in high school, it was a time where I navigated a world where learning to understand my identity was a journey in itself. I may not have been the smartest, but my heart yearned for a better life, and school became my safe space. 🏫

In senior secondary, I found solace in meaningful friendships that shaped my outlook on life before university, leaving me pondering, "What's next?"

Challenges at home and in my surroundings impacted my sense of belonging, driving me to seek comfort in the sanctuary of my room, where I passionately immersed myself in learning and studying.

Education became my guiding light, leading me to personal growth and newfound opportunities. Now, I'm fueled by the desire to empower my Pacific Islander community, a place where I feel a strong sense of connection.

Through my journey, I've learned the value of determination, perseverance, and the transformative power of education for creating positive change. As I continue to grow, I am grateful for the opportunities I have and strive to uplift others in my community.

My bond with the Pacific Islander community is profound, and I'm committed to empowering and supporting it. I've come to understand that our strengths extend beyond conventional measures of intelligence, and I aim to foster a supportive environment that encourages everyone to pursue their dreams.

📣 Exciting News! 📚🌟 Join our ESL Adult Classes every Thursday - Starting tomorrow night at 7pm AEST and experience a world of benefits!

Improve your English skills, boost confidence, and make new friends!

To sign up, simply send an email to [[email protected]] 📧 Hurry, limited slots available! We can't wait to see you thrive and learn with us! 🌐