Languages News
Lucie Dickens, Head of Languages and Global Connections
Focusing on meaningful learning beyond the classroom
One of the most exciting aspects of our Global Connections program is seeing our students use their language skills in real, meaningful conversations with peers at a global level.
This year, students studying French and Japanese have had the opportunity to connect online with students from our partner schools in France and Japan, and the results have been inspiring.
These online forums go far beyond classroom practice. They allow students to experience the language as it's truly spoken, developing confidence, spontaneity and fluency in authentic contexts. More importantly, they provide a window into another culture, helping students understand daily life, traditions, humour and perspectives different from their own.
The intercultural learning that takes place during these sessions is profound. As students chat, laugh and share stories with their international peers, they discover both similarities and differences that deepen their empathy and global awareness. It's a reminder that language is not just a subject, but a bridge between cultures.
Teachers have noted how motivated and engaged students become when their learning has purpose. Speaking to a real person their own age, rather than completing a textbook task, transforms language learning into a living, breathing experience. Many students have even taken the initiative to continue their conversations beyond these sessions, eager to keep practising and building friendships. Pen pal projects are also ways in which students are maintaining these connections.
Our Global Connections program truly brings languages to life, nurturing not only linguistic skills but also the curiosity, respect and open-mindedness that define global citizens.
STUDENT REFLECTIONS
Cassie Yeo, Year 9 French
On Tuesday 14 October at 5.15pm, Year 9 French students had the exciting opportunity to meet with students from one of Kilvington’s partner schools, St Joseph La Salle, over a Teams call. In total, 60 students joined online!
We were split into breakout rooms, with two students from Kilvington and two from St Joseph La Salle in each room. Pairs were matched based on shared interests, and we spoke in both French and English.
The breakout sessions lasted about 25 minutes, during which we asked and answered questions, shared stories and practised our language skills.
It was an amazing experience, which helped us improve our talking, learning and speaking abilities, and we're all so grateful to have had this opportunity.
Adam Sheridan, Year 9 Japanese
I was lucky enough to be in the Todoroki-Kilvington online forum. I got to speak and present a PowerPoint about a fictional character in Japanese to students in Japan. It was a wonderful opportunity which helped grow my ability to respond quickly in Japanese.
Before the presentation, we spent time getting to know each other, with them speaking English and us speaking Japanese. It was a bit challenging at first, but the more we talked, the easier it became to respond.
I really enjoyed the forum and am looking forward to participating in more in the future. I also loved their questions about Australia, especially about what the animals are like here.
Frederick Koo, Year 9 Japanese
I enjoyed learning about what students do on the other side of the world. I was surprised to find that we had quite a few things in common. The experience helped me sharpen my Japanese speaking and listening skills, and I was thrilled to have the opportunity to speak with them.