After careful consideration and with a focus on enhancing the learning experience for our students, we have decided to transition from teaching Japanese to Auslan (Australian Sign Language) starting next academic year. This decision comes as part of our commitment to providing a diverse and inclusive education that reflects the rich cultural tapestry of our community.

Why Auslan?

Auslan is a unique and expressive language that plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity within our school. By incorporating Auslan into our curriculum, we aim to create an environment that celebrates diversity and offers our students a valuable skill set that extends beyond linguistic boundaries. The ability to communicate using Auslan will not only enrich our students' cultural awareness but also equip them with a practical tool for communication in various real-world situations.

Teachers as Co-Learners (TCL) Model

Accompanying this shift in language is the introduction of the Teachers as Co-Learners (TCL) model, a dynamic and innovative approach to language instruction. The TCL model recognises that language acquisition is a collaborative and ongoing process for both students and teachers. In this model, our educators will actively engage in the learning process alongside their students, fostering a shared enthusiasm for language acquisition and creating a vibrant learning community. The whole staff enaged in professional learning on our pupil free day this week and the excitment and enagagement was excellent.

Thank You to Carmel Barry and Lois Booth

We want to take this opportunity to express our deepest gratitude to Carmel Barry and Lois Booth, our dedicated Japanese teachers. Over the years, they have played an instrumental role in developing our students' language skills in Japanese, creating a strong foundation for language learning at our school. We thank them for their commitment, expertise, and passion. Both Carmel and Lois will remain on our staff in other roles.

Looking Forward

We are confident that the transition to Auslan and the implementation of the Teachers as Co-Learners model will open new doors of opportunity for our students. We believe these changes will not only broaden their linguistic abilities but also instill in them a deep appreciation for the diversity that makes our community so special.

As always, we appreciate your ongoing support and partnership in providing the best possible education for our students. If you have any questions or concerns regarding these changes, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.

Kind Regards,

Peta Overbury
Deputy Principal - Learning and Teaching