In 2022, Geelong East Primary School introduced Japanese to all students as our chosen Language Other than English (LOTE). Languages prepare the children to be responsible and engaged members of our multicultural community, and to look outward as active and informed citizens of the world. Learning an Asian language provides the students with the opportunity to develop further understanding of the growing nature of Asia and its influence on the world.

The Japanese curriculum is organised in thematic units intended for all students. The engaging program includes speaking, listening, reading and writing activities with the majority of each lesson involving oral and conversational tasks, games and singing. Activities cover both interrelated strands of Communicating and Understanding, ensuring students develop language and cultural understanding. Students are taught oral Japanese language in conjunction with Japanese Sign Language and other additional gestures to help strengthen the connections made in the brain and assist with recall.

Each year we celebrate ‘Japan Day’ with a variety of exciting activities. During the day children engage in reading, writing, number, arts and craft, movement games and performance activities that centre on cultural traditions. Children are also encouraged to dress up on this day and we enjoy a particularly ‘special lunch’.

Students at Geelong East Primary School enjoy participating in the various games, songs and activities in each Japanese class and are proud of their achievements in learning to speak, read and write a new language.