Indonesian Update

The Indonesian program at Lara Secondary College continues to provide students with opportunities that extend far beyond learning another language. Through authentic cultural experiences, real-world communication and international partnerships, our students are developing the skills, confidence and global perspectives needed to thrive in an increasingly connected world.

Throughout the term, students across Years 7–11 have been building their Indonesian language skills through engaging and interactive learning experiences. Whether practising conversations, exploring Indonesian culture or developing their understanding of grammar and vocabulary, it has been wonderful to see students growing in confidence and embracing the challenge of communicating in another language.

Our Year 10 and 11 students recently travelled to Melbourne for an Indonesian language and cultural excursion, where they experienced Indonesian cuisine firsthand. Students enjoyed lunch at Garam Merica before finishing the day with dessert at Martabak Pecenongan, providing a valuable opportunity to apply their language learning in authentic contexts while experiencing the diversity of Indonesian food and culture.

Excitement is also building for our upcoming Indonesia Study Tour. In just a few weeks, students will embark on a two-week experience that includes a homestay with our sister school, Sekolah Alam Cikeas, in Jakarta, followed by cultural immersion in Yogyakarta. Experiences such as these allow students to step beyond the classroom, develop independence, build lifelong friendships and gain a genuine appreciation for one of Australia's closest neighbours. We look forward to sharing highlights of the journey with our school community.

During the Term 2 holidays, I also had the privilege of travelling to another partner school in SMPN6 Langke Rembong in Ruteng, Flores to deliver professional learning workshops about Neurodiversity and Inclusive Learning Practices for Indonesian teachers as part of the Australia–Indonesia BRIDGE School Partnerships Program. Working alongside educators to share inclusive teaching practices was an incredibly rewarding experience and further strengthened the partnership between our two countries.

At a time when Australia needs greater engagement with our region than ever before, language learning provides students with a unique opportunity to develop intercultural understanding, adaptability and global citizenship. We are proud to offer our students experiences that bring language learning to life and prepare them to engage confidently with the world beyond school.

Salam hangat

Pak Walker

LOTE KLA Leader