Cooking sessions have fun finish

Winners grinning after a fun end to cooking sessions

We wrapped up our term three cooking sessions with a fantastic MasterChef-style mystery box challenge with the assistance of Curtin University this week.  

Third-year Nutrition and Food Science students Aaron and Kim acted as the judges with more than 30 Canning College students attending the session.  

Students have refined their cooking skills during voluntary sessions that have been held throughout the term, including two sessions that were hosted by a current student and former chef, Renato, who is from Peru and Minn who is from Myanmar. 

This week’s food finale challenged groups of students to create their own recipes from vegetarian ingredients that were presented in a mystery box.  

Kim was surprised by the fantastic response of the Canning College students.  

“I have been so impressed with the students at Canning College,” he said. “I was not expecting this level of enthusiasm and creativity from these students.”  

The cooking sessions were organised by Head of Science Tony Herbert and Head of English Linda Angelone as part of the College’s student experience initiative.

Mr Herbert said he had been expecting around 12 students to attend the mystery box session and was delighted with the response.  

“It was great to see so many students want to take part in the challenge,” he said. “We had four competing groups of five or six students who put their creativity to the test.  

“Many of those who weren’t directly involved in the cooking, stayed to support their friends and to see the final results. It says a great deal about the friendships these students have built and their qualities as individuals.”  

Mr Herbert said Canning College’s success in assisting students in their transition into university studies was more than simply applying high academic standards in the classroom.  

“Engaging students in the process of teaching and learning is so important in achieving positive outcomes,” Mr Herbert said. “We want all our students to achieve the results they need to progress into the university and degree course of their choice.

“That requires students to work hard in the classroom and to make sure they are revising and studying throughout the year. But it is also important that they understand the need to balance work with enjoyment and relaxation.  

“Exams are coming up and students are understandably focused on studies but it’s so important that they also have time to engage in other activities.

“These cooking sessions allowed students to switch off from their academic work for a couple of hours a week, to learn new skills and to have fun. The response has been exceptional.”  

The regular cooking sessions gave students opportunities to learn about food preparation and the value of teamwork. It also resulted in delicious meals for students to enjoy each week.  

Students improved their cooking skills and applied them in the mystery box session with wonderful results.  

Dr Katya Clarke from Curtin University was supportive of further involvement in the Canning College program, including making the mystery box activity a regular event.  

Winners grinning after a fun end to cooking sessions

Recycling for charity

Students show how recycling raises money for charity.

What happens to the cans and bottles that are placed in Canning College recycling bins?

Our Student Ambassadors and Student Representative on the Board went to the local recycling centre with Deputy Principal Maria and Chemistry teacher Craig.

Watch the video to see how Scotty (Myanmar), Amalia (Malaysia), Matthew (Singapore) and Zyra (Myanmar) helped turn cans into cash for charity.

Students show how recycling raises money for charity.

International student leaders

International student leaders on board for 2022.

Cyber security, biomedical science, psychology and engineering are among the academic goals of Canning College’s 2022 international student leaders. But one of our student representatives is also on track to become a commercial helicopter pilot.

Three Student Ambassadors and a Student Representative on the Board make up the quartet of leaders, who are from three different countries.

Two WA Universities’ Foundation Program students, Scotty (Myanmar) and Amalia (Malaysia), are joined in ambassador roles by Singapore student Matthew, who is completing Year 11 Bridging.

The fourth position within the student leadership team is that of the Student Representative on the Board. Zyra, who is from Myanmar, started her duties earlier this term.

International student leaders on board for 2022.
Responsible international student leaders

While Zyra’s responsibilities directly involve providing student perspective at Board meetings, the Student Ambassadors will also help fellow students through facilitating events and activities.

Student Ambassadors will take the lead on Canning College visitor tours, assist in helping newcomers feel welcome and provide guidance and advice to other students.

Student leaders are expected to improve their communication and organisational skills and increase confidence through participation in activities.

Principal praise

Canning College Principal Maria Leslie said the students would be engaged in several activities that would encourage them to step out of their comfort zones.

“We want these students to feel a sense of importance about the roles,” Ms Leslie said. “Their involvement as student leaders will challenge them to tackle new activities, meet new people and generally broaden their experiences.

“They should also be seen by other students as people who can help find the answers to questions that may not be immediately obvious.

“We are delighted that these students have accepted the responsibility and we’re sure they will continue to grow as people as they also improve academically.”

Amalia’s studies taking off

Amalia is not yet sure whether she will immediately pursue an engineering degree after completing the WA Universities’ Foundation Program, or if she will take off in a different direction.

She likes the “the kind, multicultural and peaceful environment of Canning College,” and is also enjoying life outside of school as she trains to become a helicopter pilot.

“One of my most memorable moments in life so far was flying in a helicopter over some kangaroos that were just sitting around and chilling,” she said.

She also has other machine interests, which point towards an engineering career. She saw motorcycle legend Valentino Rossi let slip the Malaysian MotoGP when he fell in 2018, and was impressed by the roar of a Sukhoi Su-30 fighter aircraft at the Langkawi International Maritime Aerospace Exhibition in 2019.

Matthew’s mind on psychology

Matthew has settled quickly into life at Canning College and he will progress to the WA Universities’ Foundation Program next year before joining Murdoch University.

“After Canning College, I hope to pursue psychology as it has always been a passion of mine,” he said.

For now, he is enjoying the experience of studying at Canning College.

“Having had the desire to come here to study for a long while, finally being here makes me feel accomplished,” he said. “Coming here has already been a thrilling adventure.”

“I feel the College will enable me to reach my academic potential. What I like most about Canning College is that they have the friendliest and nicest teachers. Not only do the teachers have a sense of humour, but they also teach in a way that makes learning exciting.”

Cyber Scotty serious about gaming

Scotty has his sights set on a career in cyber security. From Yangon, Myanmar’s biggest city, he chose Canning College because the WA Universities’ Foundation Program offers a direct pathway into cyber security.

“Yangon has extremely friendly people and community,” he said. “Canning College campus feels like home.”

Scotty wants his interest in computers and gaming to develop into a career pathway.

“I want to be a cyber security analyst but also to turn my hobby of PC building and gaming into a business,” he said.

Zyra tuning up for biomedical science

Guitar-playing sports enthusiast Zyra is studying the WA Universities’ Foundation Program with the aim of enrolling in Biomedical Science at The University of Western Australia.

After Canning College was recommended by her agent, she conducted her own investigation before enrolling in WAUFP rather than the WA Certificate of Education.

“I feel like it would set me up for my path to university more than the WACE program,” she said of her decision to choose the Foundation Program. “Learning the English Language and Australian Cultural Studies (ELACS) subject also gives me an insight into Australia’s history.”

Already an accomplished guitarist, Zyra enjoys free time in the music room and is learning to play drums.

“I’m also interested in all kinds of sports and am willing to give it a try, even combat sport,” she said.

2022 news student leaders boardroom

Support services for international students

Carine, who is from Malaysia, was pleased with Canning College's support services for international students.

Support services for international students are incredibly important in helping them achieve their academic goals. Pursuing an education in a new country can be filled with lots of new learning opportunities and exciting experiences, but you’ll also likely be met with a few challenges and roadblocks. As you start your overseas study journey, it’s essential to know what support resources and services are available to you as an international student at your educational institution.

To help understand support services for international students at Canning College, we spoke to Carine Siew, who relocated from Malaysia to study Year 11 Secondary Studies and the WA Universities’ Foundation Program (WAUFP) at Canning College. After completing her secondary studies, Carine has moved on to pursue the Bachelor of Science (Environmental Science) at Curtin University.

Carine, who is from Malaysia, was pleased with Canning College's support services for international students.
Transition support

Coming to Australia for the first time to study felt daunting for Carine.

“I felt anxious when I arrived at the airport, not knowing anyone around me. Fortunately, in addition to the very helpful pre-departure pack, Canning College arranged for an airport pick up to drop me off at my accommodation,” Carine said.

During orientation week, the Canning College team assisted Carine with getting all the important aspects of studying and living in Australia organised. From selecting subjects and getting student/concession cards to opening a bank account – Canning ensured Carine had a smooth transition into her life in Perth. You can even seek the College’s support to find accommodation if you’re unsure about where to live during your studies.

“Their support made my life so much easier as an international student who knew nothing about living in Australia,” she said.

Study support

The Student Services centre at Canning College is the place to go to when you need any kind of assistance. Here, you can get support with day-to-day matters such as accommodation, academic issues, subject selection, guidance in tertiary entrance, visa/passport inquiries, and also receive pastoral care. Support services for international students are essential to the Canning College goal of preparing students on their pathway to universities.

“Student Services was where I ran whenever I felt lost or stressed due to my studies,” she said. “I could simply go to one of the Student Advisors at the office and talk to them. They guided me and were my greatest support system throughout my two years of study at Canning College,” Carine said.

Literacy support

Canning College also offers additional assistance with literacy and language development.

“Since my first language is not English, my goal was to improve my English language abilities so I could communicate well with people around me,” Carine said. “Thanks to Canning College and the Literacy Support Officer, my English speaking improved.”

English language is taught in creative ways to aid learning at Canning College.

“In addition to the English class, we get to learn the language by watching videos and movies and having discussions with our classmates. I really enjoyed studying English, thanks to Canning College,” Carine added.

Personalised learning environment

To help ensure you are able to meet specific career path goals and university requirements, a one-on-one interview with a Canning College Student Advisor can be held as part of the enrolment process, ensuring that your study is tailored to you and your career aspirations.

Since classes are smaller at Canning College, you’ll get to know teachers and other staff members well, which creates a supportive environment. You’ll find that your inquiries are dealt with quickly, you’ll be able to work more closely with teachers, and it’s easier to make friends.

Social and mental wellbeing support

As you focus on your studies, it is also important to maintain your social wellbeing. At Canning College, there are regular events and local trips for students to help create connections. Sometimes, the trips take students beyond Perth, allowing you to explore the wonders of the Western Australian region.

Carine shared, “Due to international border closures during the pandemic, [and] since most of us were unable to go back to our home countries, Canning College organised an overnight field trip to the Swan Valley.”

Students were able to take a break from their studies to enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Swan Valley.

At Canning College, there are also dedicated advisors available to help students with social, emotional, learning, and behavioural needs. If you ever feel like you need help with any aspects of your study and personal life, be sure to reach out to the School Psychologist, and remember: you are not alone in your academic journey!

Support for future goals

Beyond your studies at Canning College, you will find that the College serves as a fantastic springboard to tertiary education opportunities that can help meet your future career goals.

Carine admitted that her scores in science subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics were quite low before she joined Canning College. That made her feel underprepared to pursue her aim to become a wildlife conservationist.

“It felt like it was just a dream and far from being a reality. However, thanks to the patience of the teachers at College, my scores and English language have improved…boosting my confidence to pursue environmental science at university,” Carine said.

Currently enrolled, she is intending to specialise in Wildlife Biology in her second year.

Canning College and the support services for international students have been a foundation for Carine to enter university to study the degree of her dreams so she can achieve her goal to be immersed in nature and conserve precious Australian fauna.

What are your goals for the future? Check out how Canning College can help you achieve them!

2022 05 news student services

Must do in Perth in 2022

If you are an international student planning on studying in Perth, you are in for a treat! The city is a great study destination with excellent quality of life, culture, and infrastructure. 

We had a chat with Carolyn Tan, a graduate of the Western Australian Universities’ Foundation Program (WAUFP) program at Canning College. The WAUFP was Carolyn’s pathway to university, and she is now studying a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism at Curtin University.

Originally from Labuan in East Malaysia, she has lived in Perth for almost three years now and has a lot of great suggestions for international students looking to explore the city and its surroundings. Her time at Canning College was especially beneficial in helping her adapt to her new home.

“Canning College offers many opportunities for international students to familiarise themselves with Western Australia by hosting many events that allow international students to gain a better understanding of Perth,” she shares.

2020 05 Carolyn London Court 1

We’ve put together a list of eight things international students must do in Perth in 2022.

1. Head to London Court in the city centre

London Court is a charming European style open-roofed shopping arcade located between Hay St Mall and St Georges Terrace.

Carolyn says, “It’s a very photogenic spot and makes for a great outing with friends, right in the heart of the city.”

Don’t forget to pop into the quaint shops to buy souvenirs or grab a coffee, and check out the cute clock towers with their unique chimes.

2. Visit the Blue Boat House in Crawley

Located near the University of Western Australia, this picturesque spot has earned the title of being the hottest selfie spot on Instagram. The 90-year-old blue boathouse, located at the end of a pier, is one of Perth’s iconic must-sees.

“The Blue Boat House is a unique attraction to check out in Perth, but it can get a bit windy so bring a windcheater,” Carolyn advises.

3. Check out the food scene in Perth

Perth is also a great city for food lovers. “If you’re looking to have a great time with friends at a place with good vibes, and to eat excellent food that comes in big portion sizes served by great staff, try Pancho’s Mexican Villa at Victoria Park,” Carolyn says.

For something a bit more fancy, head to Firewater Grille for a nice steak. The Meat & Wine Co is another fantastic high-end dining option.

4. Explore hidden gems in the city

It is always exciting to explore a city’s secret spots, and Carolyn’s top recommendation is the S&R Orchard.

“It’s really peaceful…you can enjoy fruit picking, the prettiest pictures around the orchard and even tractor rides. They’re open seasonally so you’ll have to keep an eye out for [events].”

5. Check out local events and exhibitions

Carolyn recommends following Perth is OK or Urban List Perth to stay up to date with the city’s events and happenings.

“Keep up with the updates from local clubs, societies and associations as they regularly host events, and this is a great way to make new friends. I used to go event hopping through these [student] clubs when I first came and that’s how I met a lot of my current friends,” Carolyn says.

There are lots of events popping up in Perth, such as the Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel exhibition in Fremantle and the multi-sensory Van Gogh Alive experience. So be sure to check them out while they last.

6. Explore Perth’s parks and walking trails

Perth’s metro and regional areas both offer scenic parks and walking trails for those who enjoy the outdoors. The parks are ideal for hosting a barbecue, riding a bike, and taking pleasure in the ample walking paths along the river. There are also many walking trails close to the city for those looking to get close to nature. 

“I would often head down to Mill Point Swan River with my friend and enjoy a picnic sitting on the bench while watching the ducks float in the water against the scenic city skyline. I can’t recommend this enough to other international students, especially after a busy week of assignments,” Carolyn says.

7. Explore outer city regions

Carolyn’s recommendation to international students is to not limit themselves to exploring just the city.

“Students should take the opportunity to go out of Perth city and visit the other wonders of Western Australia, such as Busselton, Margaret River, and the Pinnacles,” she says.

One of her fondest memories of her time at Canning College involves meeting a quokka – the happiest animal on earth!

“[Canning College] gave us a chance to visit Rottnest Island! Tickets to Rotto are usually very expensive, but they managed to get us very cheap tickets! I had a great time there with my mates,” she shares.

There are some great adventure sports you can do, too, like sandboarding at the Pinnacles, and outer regional areas make for a great camping trip with friends. And don’t forget to look up at the star-studded night sky!

8. Make new friends in Perth

It can be a bit frightening to make the transition from where you’ve come from, and you may not have a lot of friends or family when you first arrive. This might lead you to feel homesick. Carolyn’s advice is to not stay cooped up indoors.

“Push yourself to discover what Perth has to offer. You might end up having fun, making new friends, and a lot of wonderful memories.”

Starting her international student journey at Canning College was particularly helpful when it came to meeting new people.

“The friends I made [at Canning College] helped make it such a memorable year for me.”

Finally, Carolyn recommends international students seek a part-time job while studying. Not only will this be excellent for gaining work experience, but the money earned can help you explore all that Perth and its surroundings have to offer.

2020 News WAUFP Carolyn

Farewell to Mid-Year Foundation students

Canning College has congratulated a group of international students on their completion of the Mid-Year WA Universities’ Foundation Program during 2021-22.

Jamielynn Wong, who is from Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia, won the Top Student Award as well as the subject awards in Computer Science and Maths Applications.

She also gave a valedictory address in which she described the challenge of studying mostly online before moving to Perth recently.

Only two students – Riho from Japan and Irene from Korea – completed the entire program on campus. They started in August 2021 and were joined in Perth by another five students during second semester following the opening of Western Australia’s borders this year.

Twenty more students completed the program in the virtual classroom online.

Students in the graduating class of 2021-22 came from Malaysia, India, Myanmar, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Hong Kong, Congo Democratic Republic, China, Iran, Philippines, Maldives and Singapore.

Acting Principal Maria Leslie and Director of International Operations Lisa De’Ceglie thanked the students for their dedication and hard work.

Award winners

Top Student: Jamielynn Wong Shin Yew (Malaysia – International Education Consultancy, Kota Kinabalu)

Chemistry: Josephine Ng Wei Tong (Malaysia – Xceleration Higher Education Consultancy, Kota Kinabalu)

Computer Science: Jamielynn Wong Shin Yew (Malaysia)

English Language and Australian Cultural Studies: Esther Seow Min Jin (Malaysia – AUG, Ipoh)

Accounting and Finance: Ma Wenjia (China – Bright Can-Achieve Limited)

Human Biology: Esther Seow Min Jin (Malaysia)

Mathematics Applications: Jamielynn Wong Shin Yew (Malaysia)

Mathematics Methods: Hein Kyaw Paign (Myanmar – Intel-Bridge Education, Yangon)

Physics: Joshua Chua Hanwei (Singapore – Jack Study Abroad)

A successful Foundation

The WA Universities’ Foundation Program provides international students with direct access to leading Australian universities.

The WAUFP is managed by the Tertiary Institutions Service Centre and students can determine their Australian Tertiary Admission Rank by using a simple conversion chart. This system is recognised by Australian universities, including Group of Eight institutions such as The University of Western Australia and the University of Melbourne.

In 2021-22, students unable to travel to Perth due to COVID restrictions, studied the WAUFP in the virtual classroom. They were required to log on daily and engage in live lessons conducted via webcam.

For some students, this meant re-scheduling their daily life so that they could align their studies with the live lessons. This was a particular challenge for Garryl, in Congo Democratic Republic. For students in the +8 timezone, there was little disruption to their daily routines.

Applications are open for the next Mid-Year WA Universities’ Foundation Program, which starts in August. Students can also start the WA Universities’ Foundation Program in February and April each year.

WAUFP is an academic program, aligned to the Western Australian school curriculum, which has been designed specifically for international students. All students study English Language and Australian Cultural Studies for nine hours per week. They must also study at least three other academic subjects.

Find out more about the WA Universities’ Foundation Program here.

2022 05 23 news mid year WAUFP grad scaled

Reach study goals with Foundation

Naomi enjoyed the Foundation Program (WAUFP) at Canning College

Canning College is a leader in preparing international students for degree program studies at universities in Australia. The Western Australian Universities’ Foundation Program (WAUFP) is the cornerstone of Canning’s university preparation programs.

What is the Western Australian Universities’ Foundation Program?

The Western Australian Universities’ Foundation Program (WAUFP) is an academic program that provides entry into tertiary education in Australia.

With programs running across either 8 or 10 months, the WAUFP provides students with the skills to help them transition into university in Australia.

Benefits of the WAUFP

Successfully completing WAUFP guarantees entry into all five Western Australian universities (Curtin University, Edith Cowan University, Murdoch University, the University of Notre Dame Australia and The University of Western Australia). Australian universities in other states, including the University of Melbourne and the University of Sydney, and some overseas institutions also accept WAUFP results as entry criteria.

Students choose from a range of academic subjects at Year 12 level, including Mathematics (Applications, Methods and Specialist), Physics, Human Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Business Management, Accounting, Economics and Computer Science.

The compulsory English Language and Australian Cultural Studies subject provides international students with additional literacy support to improve their readiness for university.

Teachers committed to both academic excellence and student wellbeing

Naomi Pang completed the WAUFP at Canning College in May 2020. She began the course as part of a cohort in August 2019.

“I thought it was the best pathway for me to enter directly into Australian universities,” Naomi said of the WAUFP.

The experience was a positive one, and Naomi has since gone on to study a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at the University of Queensland.

The diversity of the Canning College cohort, and the fact that many of them were living out of home for the first time, made it easy to find friends and study buddies.

Naomi enjoyed the Foundation Program (WAUFP) at Canning College
Alignment with the Australian syllabus prepares students for life after Canning

Naomi said that WAUFP aligns with the Australian syllabus and gives international students a taste of learning in an Australian classroom.

This knowledge has been hugely beneficial now that she has commenced her tertiary education.

For Garryl Kalonji, WAUFP has helped him improve his English language skills and has prepared him for the architecture degree he hopes to pursue when he finishes.

“I have learned and added new skills and knowledge which will be helpful for my future studies and career,” Garryl explained.

Garryl started WAUFP remotely from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. At first, he was anxious about studying online, given he would need to attend classes at odd hours due to the time difference.

“But I had the support of teachers and other staff members as they were taking time to help when needed,” he said.

This helped him feel confident that he could complete his studies despite the logistical challenges. Garryl has since travelled from Congo and joined Canning College on campus studies.

How to apply to WAUFP at Canning College

Students can start WAUFP in any of three intakes, which are in January, April and August. Students joining in April complete an accelerated program, which aligns with students who started in January.

April-start students generally need to be of above-average academic ability to cope with the heavier workload.

The Mid-Year (August) intake is completed in the middle of the following year.

Scholarships are available, based on academic merit.

To apply for the WAUFP at Canning College, students must have completed year 11 or equivalent and have English language skills at IELTS 5.5 level. 

Moving on to university

After completing WAUFP, students receive a Combined Percentage Score, which can be directly compared to the Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR), which is used for university entry.

Naomi wouldn’t hesitate to recommend WAUFP at Canning College to other international students. Her advice is simple: “don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, because with every step you take you gain a bit of confidence.”

This was a particularly important element of her studies and has eased the transition into university.

Garryl’s view is similar. He has gone from being anxious about beginning WAUFP to “confident, comfortable, and ready to start University!”

2022 05 05 news Garryl student scaled

Garryl’s commitment to learning

Garryl was learning during lockdown.

Garryl, who lives in Lubumbashi in the Democratic Republic of Congo, is seriously committed to his studies, making a point of learning something new during lockdown.

Despite a six-hour time difference between his hometown and Perth, he joins his classmates for online lessons delivered live from Canning College.

He wakes during the night to start College and often sleeps during the day. But he is now on his way to completing the Mid-Year WA Universities’ Foundation Program.

Watch the video below to find out more about Garryl, his hobbies and where he will go next.

From online to on campus

From online to on campus

Alvin Candra spent 2021 finishing a Diploma of Commerce with Canning College from his home in Indonesia.

Online study was the best option for him to progress quickly into the second year of Curtin University’s Bachelor of Commerce degree program.

With Western Australia’s borders now open to international visitors, Alvin has already arrived in Perth and is studying on campus at nearby Curtin University.

We were delighted to meet our 2021 valedictory speaker at Canning College recently, and thank him for choosing us on his pathway to university.

We want all our students to make the most of their international education experience by studying with us in Western Australia.

But we will also continue to offer students an opportunity to start their studies online if they are not yet ready to join us in Perth.

Just like Alvin, you can start your studies online before making the move to Western Australia.

Read more about Alvin’s journey from online to on campus studies on Insider Guides here.

From online to on campus