The work of community language teachers has been recognised at the annual Outstanding Community Language Teachers Awards, part of Western Australia’s Languages Week activities.
Languages Week celebrates language and language learning and is marked widely in Western Australia, where more than 290 languages (including Aboriginal languages) are spoken.
Twenty teachers were recognised at this years’ award ceremony, which is held by the State Government in partnership with Community Languages Western Australia (CLWA), the peak body for community language schools.
Community language teachers teach language and cultural maintenance programs to school aged children in not-for-profit community language schools.
Dr Nirosha Dilhani Kapu Arachchilage has received the 2019 Outstanding Community Language Teacher of the Year Award for her ongoing dedication towards the development of the Perth Sinhala School as well as the wider community languages sector in WA.
Dr Arachchilage, who joined the Perth Sinhala School in 2008, stood out from a competitive field for her commitment to her students and encouraging their further study in languages and for her promotion of Sinhalese culture from generation to generation.
The State Government funds 47 community languages schools through the Office of Multicultural Interests (OMI).
More information about the Community Language Teacher Awards and Languages Week is available on
As stated by Citizenship and Multicultural Interests Minister Paul Papalia:
“Congratulations to Dr Arachchilage for receiving the 2019 Outstanding Community Language Teacher of the Year award.
“Community language teachers, like Dr Arachchilage, perform a vital service in maintaining language and cultural diversity in Western Australia.
“Community language schools are often staffed by highly dedicated volunteers with a passion for language and teaching.
“The McGowan Government is proud to support these teachers through the Community Language Program, which ensures community language schools have access to professional development, teaching resources and funding.”
