Auslan News

Errol St Campus

From Caen, Senior School Auslan teacher

As we come to the end of the school year, it has been a joy to reflect on the incredible growth students have made in Auslan. Their confidence, accuracy, and willingness to communicate through signing have developed so much, and they should be extremely proud of how far they’ve come. It has been wonderful to see students approach Auslan with curiosity, enthusiasm, and resilience throughout the year. 

In the final weeks of term, we shifted our focus towards student-created learning. Earlier in the year, students designed their own Auslan board games, and these have now become a highlight of our lessons. Students worked in small groups to play each other’s games, using them as a fun and meaningful way to revise key signs from across the year. There was plenty of laughter, collaboration, and friendly competition, all while reinforcing important Auslan skills. 

What made these activities particularly valuable was the level of care students showed in their signing. As they played, students were responsible for ensuring their signs were accurate and clear, paying close attention to HOLM (Handshape, Orientation, Location, Movement) and NMF (Non-Manual Features). It was fantastic to see students self-correct, support one another, and confidently explain signs when questions arose. Engagement during these lessons was incredibly high. Students were motivated not only by the games themselves, but by the pride of sharing something they had created. These sessions highlighted how far students have come. From learning individual signs earlier in the year to now applying them confidently in interactive, student-led contexts. 

As we wrap up the year, I want to acknowledge the effort, positivity, and openness each student has brought to Auslan lessons. Their growth has been clear not just in their signing, but in their willingness to communicate, collaborate, and celebrate language and culture. 

Thank you for your continued support throughout the year. It has been a privilege to teach your children Auslan, and I hope they carry their learning, curiosity, and confidence with them into the new year. Wishing you and your families a safe, happy, and restful break.