Our Japanese Program is a cultural and linguistic adventure that opens the door to Japan’s rich heritage and language. The program offers a comprehensive curriculum, including language instruction, cultural exploration, and a deep dive into the traditions and customs of Japan. With dedicated teachers and a supportive learning environment, we provide a unique and engaging experience for students.
Unique program elements of Japanese
- Cultural Immersion: Students will immerse themselves in Japanese culture through traditional activities, matsuri (festivals), and cuisine. Students organise a ‘mini matsuri’ for the Year 7 cohort, based on traditional Japanese matsuri games and refreshments. Each student is responsible for planning all aspects of their chosen stall.
- Study Tours: We welcome several Japanese school groups each year and students in our program will have priority to pair with Japanese student visitors. Our students enjoy the opportunity to make new friends and form lifelong friendships. Our students are given first preference for our Japan trip, which is planned for September or December 2024. A highlight of the Japan trip is the opportunity to visit a Japanese High School and experience school life. This fosters a deeper understanding of the language and culture.
- Cultural Workshops: Students can participate in hands-on activities such as calligraphy, tea ceremony and Japanese theatre, gaining practical skills and appreciation for Japanese traditions.
- Japanese Film and Literature: Our program includes the exploration of Japanese literature and cinema, allowing students to appreciate Japan’s artistic and storytelling contributions.
- Cross-Cultural Understanding: Through intercultural experiences, students develop a strong appreciation for diversity.
Current achievements and pathways
- Language Proficiency and Translation: Students can pursue language proficiency and work as translators or interpreters, facilitating communication between Japanese and other languages.
- Business and International Relations: The ability to speak Japanese is valuable in international business and diplomacy, opening doors to opportunities in global trade and relations.
- Teaching Japanese: Some graduates become Japanese language educators, either in language schools or as instructors in international education settings.
- Japan-Related Careers: The knowledge of Japanese culture and language can lead to careers in fields such as tourism, journalism, or cultural exchange programs.
- Further Academic Study: A deep passion for Japan may lead students to undertake advanced academic studies related to Japanese history, culture, or literature at a university level.
- Personal Enrichment: Learning Japanese provides lifelong enrichment, enabling individuals to connect with Japanese-speaking communities, appreciate Japanese art and culture, and engage in personal growth through cross-cultural understanding.
- Working in Japan: Students have worked or studied in Japan and gained employment as cultural liaisons, English teachers, assistant teachers, and in the hospitality fields.