Dear colleagues,
As we step into 2025, we have much to celebrate as teachers of French in Western Australia. This year marks the 30th anniversary of our association—a milestone that invites us to honour the dedicated individuals who have shaped TOFA over the years.
We also take great pride in the recent outstanding success of the FATFA TOFA National Conference, which we had the privilege of hosting in Perth last November. With a strong turnout of participants and an exceptional lineup of presenters, the conference was a true testament to the passion and expertise within our community. The overwhelmingly positive feedback we received reaffirmed the strength of our association, deepened connections among our members, and gave us renewed energy to continue the work we do.
With this momentum, our committee is more committed than ever to creating meaningful opportunities for networking, collaboration, and professional growth. As educators, we are a remarkably resourceful and knowledgeable community, and it is through these connections that we strengthen our practice and enrich the learning experiences of our students. This year, we will be launching new initiatives such as Teachers’ Paint and Sip and roundtable dinner events focused on specific topics. We look forward to connecting with members at these events. This is the true power of an association—bringing people together to inspire progress.
Looking ahead, we are also dedicated to amplifying our collective voice in discussions with stakeholders and government bodies. Despite the undeniable cognitive and lifelong benefits of learning another language, languages education in Australia has long been undervalued. As an association, we have a vital role to play in challenging outdated perceptions and fostering a deeper appreciation for the importance of language learning—not just within schools, but across the broader Western Australian community. By working together, we can contribute to a shift in mindset that recognises languages as an essential part of a well-rounded education.
We invite you to engage, connect, and contribute to help us expand opportunities for our students. Together, we can make a lasting impact.
Amicalement,
Céline Decoux