Languages

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.

In Years 11 and 12, NSW schools offer a wide variety of languages, catering for beginning students to background speakers.

Languages involves the study of language and culture. The study of languages provides opportunities for students to become more accepting of diversity and more aware of their place in the international community. Students will develop skills in listening, reading, writing, speaking, making linguistic connections and moving between cultures.

Students at Windsor High School learn Indonesian. Each year, our Year 7 cohort, is introduced to all the wonders of one of our closest neighbours, Indonesia. During this time, students complete their compulsory 100 hours of language study. Following a series of alternating topics relevant to Stage 4, students will undertake various communication tasks, language points, pronunciation skills and cultural awareness activities. They very quickly begin having a conversation with each other and before they know it, they are speaking Indonesian! Bagus Sekali!