Everyday English Conference 2026 

The Made for Connection Everyday English Conference was held on 30 January at the Rooty Hill Multicultural Bible Ministry Centre, hosted by Anglicare's Cross Cultural Services team. Designed for Everyday English volunteers and church partners, the conference brought together people from across our communities for a day of practical learning, fresh resources, and meaningful connection.

Participants enjoyed a vibrant, free-roam expo showcasing tools and supports for cross-cultural ministry. From evangelistic resources and heart-language Bibles to refugee support information, Anglicare services, and a wide range of Everyday English teaching materials, the expo provided hands-on inspiration for volunteers supporting learners from diverse backgrounds.

Attendees at the Cross Cultural Services Conference

The day also featured a series of practical and engaging workshops, allowing participants to tailor their learning to their ministry context. Sessions included the Beyond the Classroom Panel, where leaders shared how culturally aware hospitality helps build genuine community, and Managing a Mixed-Level Class, which offered practical strategies for supporting learners with different ability levels. Other workshops explored ways to keep conversation flowing with confidence, introduced simple techniques for teaching pronunciation and clarity, and provided a powerful Refugee Experience Simulation led by Anglicare's David Ip. This guided experience helped participants better understand trauma-linked behaviours and how to support students from refugee backgrounds with sensitivity and care.

Alongside the workshops, attendees were introduced to Anglicare's updated lesson materials and the newest Everyday English teaching resources, equipping volunteers with practical tools they can use straight away. Morning tea, lunch, and refreshments throughout the day created space for connection, conversation, encouragement, and the sharing of stories and ideas.

The team from the Bible Society of Australia enjoying a break

Anglicare's Cross Cultural Services team

Steve Dinning, Anglicare Senior Program Manager facilitates the "Keeping the Conversation Going" Workshop

Expo Highlights and New Resources

The expo featured a wide range of ministry partners and support teams, including SATYA - South Asian Outreach, Ministry to Muslims, Sydney Refugee Team, Bible Society Australia, and more. Together, they reflected the breadth of collaboration and shared mission within cross-cultural ministry.

Following the conference, the Cross Cultural Services team has added several new resources to the online Resource webpage including:

• God made our world - Level 1 Beginner.
• One sheet wonders - Level 3-4 Intermediate-High Intermediate.
• Frequently asked questions - Level 4 High intermediate.
• Introduction Bible Studies - Seven studies designed to introduce people with little or no knowledge of the Bible to the Christian gospel.

The Everyday English Conference was a valuable opportunity for volunteers and churches to connect, learn, share, and grow together, reflecting our shared commitment to being Made for Connection. We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to making this year's conference such a rich and encouraging day.