Language News

Student Spotlight: Caitlin Hickey’s Shanghai Experience

We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Caitlin H (Year 11), who was recently selected to attend the 2025 Shanghai International Sister Cities Youth Camp. This prestigious scholarship program, offered by the Department of Education, provided Caitlin with a unique opportunity to immerse herself in Chinese culture while strengthening her language skills.

During the camp, Caitlin participated in cultural activities, formed connections with students from around the world, and gained invaluable insights into Chinese traditions and daily life. She also deepened her Chinese language learning through hands-on experiences, further enhancing her skills and confidence.

In her own words, Caitlin shares highlights of her journey – from the most memorable cultural moments, to the friendships she built, and how this experience has shaped her personal growth and future aspirations.

🎥 Watch the video here to hear directly from Caitlin about her inspiring time in Shanghai and the opportunities the program has opened for her.

Chinese Singing Competition

We're excited to share the heartwarming success of the recent Chinese Singing Competition, a collaborative effort between our dedicated Chinese language teachers and the esteemed Confucius Institute at QUT. This event provided students in Years 7-12 with a special opportunity to showcase their language skills and appreciation for culture through the enchanting medium of music.

The competition featured two categories, Years 7-9 and 10-12, each showcasing the unique talents of our students. Their performances beautifully merged their understanding of the Chinese language with their love for singing, resulting in captivating melodies that echoed with linguistic finesse and a sincere embrace of the culture.

We're delighted to announce the winners of this special event:

7-9:

1st – Aahana K

2nd

1. Grace C, Olivia W, Lily RM, Harley R, Ethan D
2. Sonny T & Aru H & Brocton G

3rd

1. Fynn W and Sebastian G
2. Vivian G
3. Anna K

Participation:

• Toby M
• Chloe G & Ruby D
• Blessing J & Maya M & Madeline D
• Jani V & Eliza S & Chloe S
• Scarlett M, Amelia H, Lucy M, Miles R
• Julie Z & Matilda Mi & Sarp A & Sophie T

10-12

• 1st  Zac T
• 2nd Lahiri H
• 3rd Edda L

Participation:

• Erica O L
• Caitlin H
• Zac T

Their performances truly stood out for their impressive language skills and their ability to infuse cultural elements into their renditions.

This event was more than a competition; it embodied the spirit of unity and celebrated diversity. Our students took this chance to dive into the world of the Chinese language and culture, broadening their horizons and nurturing a deeper global perspective.

Our heartfelt gratitude extends to the Confucius Institute at QUT for their invaluable support in making this event possible. Their commitment to promoting language and cultural exchange has significantly enhanced our students' learning experiences.

First time success for The Gap SHS participation at German online speech contest

Our Year 7 German Immersion students proudly represented The Gap State High School for the first time in the LTQ Languages Online Speech Contest, an annual event hosted by the Languages Teachers’ Association of Queensland. The competition aims to foster a love and appreciation for languages and cultures.

Students submitted a 1.5-minute video presentation in German, introducing themselves and speaking about their hobbies, family members, and favourite animals. This year’s contest attracted 390 entries from 63 schools across Queensland, covering French, German, Spanish, Italian, Korean and Japanese.

We are delighted to share that Jason and Ting Ting each received a Credit Award, while Madeline achieved a Bronze Award. 

Congratulations to all participants on their outstanding efforts and achievements!

Student Spotlight: Caitlin Hickey’s Shanghai Experience

We are proud to celebrate the achievements of Caitlin Hickey (Year 11), who was recently selected to attend the 2025 Shanghai International Sister Cities Youth Camp. This prestigious scholarship program, offered by the Department of Education, provided Caitlin with a unique opportunity to immerse herself in Chinese culture while strengthening her language skills.

During the camp, Caitlin participated in cultural activities, formed connections with students from around the world, and gained invaluable insights into Chinese traditions and daily life. She also deepened her Chinese language learning through hands-on experiences, further enhancing her skills and confidence.

In her own words, Caitlin shares highlights of her journey – from the most memorable cultural moments, to the friendships she built, and how this experience has shaped her personal growth and future aspirations.

🎥 Watch the video here to hear directly from Caitlin about her inspiring time in Shanghai and the opportunities the program has opened for her.