In NSW high schools, languages is a key learning area.
Language study allows students to develop communication skills, learn about languages as systems and explore the relationship between language and culture. Students engage with the linguistic and cultural diversity of societies and reflect on their understanding of social interactions.
The study of a language is compulsory for 100 hours in one continuous school year from Year 7 to Year 10, but preferably in Years 7 or 8.
Teacher, Ms Catherine Barwick - catherine.barwick3@det.nsw.edu.au
All Year 7 study Italian as part of their mandatory LOTE hours.
The study of Languages in Year 7 provides students with the opportunity to develop foundational communication skills in a language other than English—in our school, this is Italian. Through the Language Other Than English (LOTE) program, students gain insights into the Italian language and culture while building essential skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
The NSW Languages curriculum aims to foster students’ capacity to interact in meaningful ways across cultural contexts, promoting intercultural understanding and respect. Students engage in learning activities that enable them to express ideas, share information, and explore aspects of daily life in Italian-speaking communities, laying the groundwork for further language learning in the future.
Studying a language enhances cognitive flexibility, deepens cultural awareness, and strengthens students’ understanding of their own language. These transferable skills support literacy development across the curriculum and prepare students to be thoughtful global citizens.
All students in Year 7 complete one year of study in Italian, as part of their mandatory Stage 4 Languages requirement. While formal language study concludes at the end of Year 7 at our school, students carry forward the valuable communication skills and intercultural knowledge gained during this foundational year.
