The Importance of Learning Languages
The National Statement for Languages Education in Australian Schools highlights the importance of learning languages in that they:
- Enrich our learners intellectually, educationally and culturally
- Enable our learners to communicate across cultures
- Contribute to social cohesiveness through better communication and understanding
- Further develop the existing linguistic and cultural resources in our community
- Contribute to our strategic, economic and international development
- Enhance employment and career prospects for the individual.
Language study provides students with many opportunities to develop communication skills and awareness of other cultures.
Languages at Loreto College
Loreto College offers two Languages from Years 7-12. It is compulsory for all students at Loreto College to study a Language in Years 7, 8 and 9. Students choose either French or Japanese languages when they commence their studies at Loreto College.
The classroom teaching of Languages is complemented with study tours to France (or New Caledonia) and Japan. These tours are held on a two-year rotating cycle. Loreto College is fortunate to have established a long-term relationship with Sacred Heart, Obayashi in Hyogo and Shibuya Kyokiku Gakuen in Tokyo for Japanese. The French department has also established a relationship with a school in France.
Why is Japanese a language of choice at Loreto College?
Learning Japanese is fun!
Japanese has been a popular subject choice amongst students because of its interesting culture. It is a perfect language for students looking for a new way of thinking because Japan is very different to Australia. In Japanese classes, students learn the language and study the culture in a fun learning environment. The course is largely taught through songs, games and role-playing activities, as well innovative use of ICT. A range of culture workshops are held throughout the year, including an excursion to an authentic Japanese restaurant.
Japan remains at the forefront of the cutting-edge electronics scene and robotics, therefore speaking Japanese is ideal for many opportunities in these fields.
Loreto College in-country study tour to Japan
Loreto College conducts in-country study tours with Sacred Heart, Obayashi and Shibuya Kyoiku Gakuen to enhance the study of Japanese language.
The important relationship between Australia and Japan
Japanese is one of the most influential and useful languages in the Asia region. A student who has Japanese cultural and linguistic competence, as well as a general understanding of Asia, can be open to a wide variety of career choices, for example, in trade, tourism, banking, technology and education.
Highlights from our 2019 Japan Study Tour
Highlights from our 2015 Japan Study Tour
Why choose French?
French is a beautiful language!
The French language is charming and expressive. When students role-play in French at Loreto, they automatically start using facial expressions and gestures that are typical of French speakers. Students will learn songs, play games, purchase products in French and find out about life in France from our French teachers. In addition, the students written, reading and listening skills often improve through the activities of reflection on the French language.
A worldwide language
More than 200 million people speak French on five continents. The Francophonie, the international organisation of French-speaking countries, comprises 68 states and governments. French is the second most widely learned foreign language after English, and the ninth most widely spoken language in the world. An ability to speak French and English is an advantage in the international job market.
Loreto College in-country study tour to New Caledonia
Loreto College conducts a country study tour to New Caledonia, where students may immerse themselves in the French Language and culture.