The Anchor

From the Principal

Language learning at GSG is moving ahead

I am pleased to announce a new approach to Language learning and offerings at Great Southern Grammar commencing on Monday next week.

 

Language learning is a compulsory curriculum area for Years Three to Eight in Western Australia.

 

Learning a language other than English is an essential part of a vibrant and rich academic program that builds knowledge, communication and written skills, cultural awareness and global citizenship.

 

Moreover, Language learning develops collaboration, problem solving, critical thinking and creativity.

 

After consultation and a review of current practices in schools across the State, GSG will offer a holistic approach to Language learning going forward.

  • In 2024 - Pre-Primary to Year Four – students will engage in Language learning through an integrated approach using the existing units of inquiry exploring student identity and their place in the world. This learning will focus on cultural awareness and understanding with authentic learning experiences based on student backgrounds, introduction to French language, arts and culture. This program will expand to include other languages and cultural contexts in 2025.
  • In 2024 – students in Years Five to Eight will engage in Japanese Language learning. This is an important step to ensure continuity of learning through to the end of the academic year.
  • From 2025 – students in Years Five and Six will commence Language learning in French. This will be coupled with an integrated inquiry model that will explore global citizenship and the Humanities.
  • From 2025 – students in Years Seven and Eight will commence Language learning in French with a focus on knowledge, communication skills and written response. This will be coupled with a greater focus on global perspectives including social, political, economic and cultural dimensions.
  • From 2026 – GSG will launch a Year Nine enrichment Language program in French based on student interest.

In addition to Language learning, GSG will continue to offer international tours to Japan and France, with the inclusion of the USA and South-East Asia over the next few years. These trips are unique learning experiences that will further consolidate cultural and global perspectives and competencies explored in the classroom.

 

I am pleased to announce that Ms Vanessa Krier has been appointed to teach the new Pre-Primary to Year Four program. Vanessa is well known to the GSG community and holds a Bachelor of Applied Language, Masters in Translation, Diploma of Children’s Services (Early Childhood and Care) and a Masters in Teaching. Vanessa has studied in France, Germany, United Kingdom and Australia.

 

Ms Louise Denholm has been appointed Years Five and Six Japanese teacher this semester. Louise is well known to students in the Secondary School. She holds a Bachelor of Science with a Japanese major and a Graduate Diploma of Education with Japanese major. She has studied and travelled extensively in Japan and brings a wealth of experience to the role.

 

This new approach will safeguard future academic development of students and ensure GSG is at the forefront of Language learning in the region.

Important Information

The Principal Challenge #3 is joining me and the Great Southern Grammar team of student leaders in participating in the Albany Big Sleep Out on Saturday 24 August 2024.

 

The Big Sleep Out is an annual fundraising initiative that encourages us to get out of our comfort zone for one night to raise funds for the less fortunate in our community who are homeless.

 

All funds raised goes directly to Albany's unique Housing Crisis Response Fund which has been established to assist those that are homeless, disadvantaged or in crisis. 

 

The Principal Challenge #3 is to take up the opportunity to join us in the sleep out or donate money to the team in our pursuit of raising $7,500. Donations can made at: https://albanys-big-sleep-out-2024.raiselysite.com/greatsoutherngrammar

 

In support of this cause, our Year Eleven Certificate IV Business students have developed a project to involve our students and contribute to the fundraising effort.

 

They will be hosting a cake stall on 22 August 2024 and an activities program during lunch time for all students.

 

Secondary School students are encouraged to wear their dressing gowns to school and all students are encouraged to give a gold coin donation.

 

This day will also coincide with the 2024 Book Week Dress Up Day in the Primary and Secondary School.

 

As we continue this journey in 2024, I would like to invite interested parents/guardians to come to a coffee morning to discuss celebrations, areas for improvement, and ideas for the future.

 

When: Thursday 19 September 2024

Time: 10.00am to 11.30am

Where: Dylans on the Terrace, Stirling Terrace (upstairs)

RSVP: HERE.

 

Go well

Mr Mathew Irving | Principal