Languages

Year 7 students select a language to study, with three compulsory classes per week until Year 9. Year 9 to 11 students continue their language studies with four classes a week. Year 12 students undertake five classes a week and are encouraged to dedicate free time for conversation practise provided by the College. Students gain advanced literacy skills, increase an appreciation of their own language, endeavour to think critically and become more aware of the world around them. Language studies covers topics such as: sustainability, etiquette, technology, employment, travel, food culture, immigration, movie genres and social issues.

Mazenod College offers biannual language and cultural tours and exchange programs. The opportunity to travel on these study tours are given to Year 9 to 11 language students studying the national language of the destination. A strong relationship has been developed with a sister school in Osaka, Japan, Daisho Gakuen and students can be hosted in Japan or host a Daisho Gakuen student in their home. The hosting experience has been acknowledged by students and their families as a wonderful and rewarding event.

Each year an intern from Meiji Gakuin University in Yokohama attends Japanese classes to enhance conversation. Staff and students are given the opportunity to host our intern, who not only contributes to the students’ language learning, but also to the upkeep of the language abilities of our staff.