Chester Hill Intensive English Centre
Chester Hill Intensive English Centre (IEC) (est. 1978) provides an Intensive English and settlement program for newly arrived migrant and refugee students who are learning English as an additional language or dialect.
At Chester Hill IEC, Students develop their English language skills, become familiar with the Australian school system and build the confidence needed to succeed in mainstream schooling.
Our program typically runs for 6–12 months, depending on individual needs, before students' transition into mainstream classes at their local school.
Our Students come from a range of cultural and language backgrounds and are supported by staff working closely with families and schools to ensure a smooth transition into mainstream education.
Our welcoming and supportive environment helps students settle into school life and build confidence in their new learning environment.
For more information about Intensive English Centres and how they support newly arrived students, visit the NSW Department of Education website.
Chester Hill Intensive English Centre supports students from schools across our intake area.
You can check whether your address is within the intake area using the School Finder tool. Most schools have designated local enrolment areas, which may change over time.
Students attending Chester Hill IEC may transition into one of the following high schools once they are ready to move into mainstream classes:
- Bass High School
- Birrong Boys High School
- Birrong Girls High School
- Bankstown Girls High School
- Chester Hill High School
- Condell Park High School
- Granville South High School
- Sefton High School
- Sir Joseph Banks High School
For more information about schools within the intake area or transition pathways, please contact Chester Hill IEC.
Referrals to Chester Hill IEC are made through the NSW Department of Education or local schools.
All students and families should contact us to arrange an enrolment appointment before attending. Staff are available to assist with enrolment enquiries throughout the year.
How to enrol
Families who are Australian or New Zealand citizens or permanent residents can complete the online enrolment application.
If you are unable to enrol online, you can complete the Application to enrol form and submit it to the school.
For more information, visit:
If your child does not live within the local intake area, you may apply for an out-of-area enrolment. Applications are considered in line with the department’s enrolment policy.
Families on temporary visas can find information about eligibility and application requirements through the Temporary Residents Program.
Students participate in an intensive English language program designed to develop communication, literacy and learning skills.
The program supports students to build confidence using English while continuing their education in a supportive learning environment.
Students follow a structured daily program that includes English language lessons, classroom learning and opportunities to participate in school activities.
Students build skills in:
- English language development
- reading, writing, speaking and listening
- classroom learning and activities
- understanding Australian school routines
Students are also supported to participate in school life and build connections within the school community. This may include excursions, cultural activities and opportunities to participate in school events.
These experiences help students feel confident and connected as they prepare to transition into mainstream schooling.
Regular attendance is important to support student learning and progress throughout the program.
Events
We celebrated Refugee Week from the 15-19 June 2026 and enjoyed the many inspiring stories of members of our school community.
Our students represented the IEC well at the 2026 Athletics Carnival. It was a positive day of friendly competition and connection.
On 26 March 2026 we recognised and celebrated the diversity of cultures in our school community.
Student and family support
Chester Hill IEC works closely with students and their families to support wellbeing and successful engagement with school.
Staff provide guidance to help students adjust to school life and build positive relationships with teachers and peers.
Chester Hill IEC communicates regularly with families about student learning, progress and school activities.
Support may include:
- student wellbeing support
- orientation to Australian school systems
- links with local community services
Multicultural support
We recognise and value the diverse cultural backgrounds of our students and families.
Support may include:
- interpreters
- community language support
This support helps families communicate with the school and stay connected with their child’s learning.
Call, email or visit us
Our office is open Monday to Friday 8am to 3pm during school term. For enquiries about enrolment, intake areas or associated schools, please contact our centre.
Chesterhil-i.School@det.nsw.edu.au
02 9645 3780
Miller Road Chester Hill 2161
