Languages

Learning additional languages widens horizons, broadens cognitive and cultural experience, develops communicative and intercultural competence and opens up new perspectives for the learners. The students at St Hilda’s School are offered the languages of French, German and Japanese. Learning any one of these languages extends, diversifies and enriches learner’s cognitive, social and linguistic development.

By studying a LOTE, the main key competency areas are meet; these include:

Collecting, analyzing and organizing information.

Communicating ideas and information.

Planning and organizing activities.

Working with others and in teams.

Solving problems.

Using technology.

LOTE classes at St Hilda’s begin with Pre-Prep and it is possible to continue with your chosen LOTE through to Year 12. All language classes are taught by native or ‘near’ native level speakers of the languages. All LOTE staff have had significant in country experience. This allows them to discuss first hand the cultural differences that may exist between the country of study.

In the classroom situation, the students are exposed to a variety of teaching styles that both challenge and enspire the student to do their best. Where possible, technology is included in LOTE activities.

The students at St Hilda’s are encouraged to participate in many external competitions. These may range from regional competition to internationally conducted examinations. The students enjoy the opportunity to compete against their peers in the local and state speech competitions, state poster and media competitions and the national language certificates.

During the term and holiday periods, the girls are encouraged to participate in the active exchange program. These programs include such opportunities as a 2 week cultural tour; 1 month, 3 months or 6 month exchanges to both Europe and Japan. In Japan we have had a strong sister school arrangement for a number of years with both Hakata Girls’ School and Mukogawa Junior and Senior High School.