TCE Languages Courses

TCE Languages Courses

There are many good reasons for learning to speak a second language: 

• Bilingualism is healthy and creates neuron connections in the brain that might otherwise not be formed. Learning a language involves memorising rules and vocabulary which evidence suggests provide improved attention, intelligence and better verbal and spatial abilities. 
• Learning to speak another language enables students to become more attuned to the nuances of the English language. 
• Employers recognise that learning a second language requires some rigorous study and by highlighting their proficiency in a second language, job entrants show that they have gained important skills for business needs, such as multitasking and increased perception. This is vital in a competitive marketplace. 
• To truly connect with people and their culture, one has to speak their language. By being able to communicate in another language, students become more culturally aware, tolerant and open to differences between humanity. 
• Language learning is enjoyable. Language features such as rhyme, accent, intonation and even the nuances of grammar are fun to learn. Cultural exchange trips, language celebration days and hosting students from other countries all provide students with memorable experiences, adventure and life long international friendships. 

The Languages Program at The Friends’ School allows students the choice of undertaking studies in Chinese, French, German and Japanese. This program is nurtured from the early stages of Year 7 through to the more challenging TCE and IB Diploma courses. Additional languages may also be offered to native speakers as part of the IB Diploma if there are sufficient numbers. 

Students wishing to take up study in Chinese, French, German or Japanese at the TCE pre-tertiary level who did not complete the Year 10 program in the language, or students who wish to study two languages, or students who are interested in the School Supported Self Taught Languages program are advised to meet with the Head of Languages, or the IB coordinator, prior to making their subject choices. 

High Achievers Program (HAP) 

Students achieving an Exceptional Achievement (EA) in two or more Level three TASC subjects in Year 11 are eligible to participate in the HAP whilst in Year 12. Units successfully completed may be credited to a relevant degree, when the student enrols at the University of Tasmania. Credit provides two advantages: students have the option of accelerating through their degree, or they can take on additional subjects to extend their study program.