Who's Who in the Primary?

From this year, the College is excited to be able to offer the gift of learning another language to all students from Kindergarten. I am excited to be introducing the language and culture of Japan to the primary school students. 

My name is Susie Allan (the students call me aran sensei). I grew up in Hobart and lived in Japan as an exchange student in my late teens. This led to further study of Japanese language during my teaching degree at university. Since graduating, I have experienced numerous opportunities to use my knowledge of the culture and language skills in a variety of settings around Australia and the world. I love teaching children about Japanese culture and language. As part of this learning experience, children are exposed to multiple perspectives and learn how to respect and effectively relate to people different from themselves. 

Some fun facts about myself:

• My favourite colour is red.
• As a lifelong reader, I have many favourite books. One story I love is The Lorax.
• I love all types of food and enjoy cooking as well as eating.
• I relax by swimming in the sea, walking on the beach or in the bush, going away camping and sitting on the verandah with family and friends or reading.
• When in Prep, one of the students called me Mrs aran sensei. On hearing a combination of languages, this gave me a smile.
• In 2023, I am most looking forward to introducing Japanese to the Kindergarten - Year 2 students and doing a multi-day bushwalk.
• I believe language knows no borders. A poem I love to read often is: The Hundred Languages by L. Malaguzzi

Japanese at Mount Carmel College

This year, we are privileged to offer our Japanese language program to students from Kinder to Year 10.

Our new sensei, Ms Susie Allan has been teaching early years students common greetings such as kon’nichiwa (hello), arigato (thank you) and sayonara (goodbye).

Prep students have been shown a Japanese daruma doll. A daruma is a Japanese doll that symbolises perseverance. When you purchase a daruma their eyes are both blank. The owner will choose a goal or wish and paint the left eye. Once their goal or wish is achieved they can colour in the other eye. Daruma are displayed to remind you to never give up on your dreams.