Choosing a language
Choosing the right language to offer can be overwhelming. There are over 40 languages taught in NSW primary schools.
The decision should involve consultation with the whole school community. The following considerations and case studies are here to help you make the right choice for your school's context.
Available language teachers
Consider options already available to you, such as language teachers who are:
- already employed at your school
- available to work at your school.
Local high school programs
Foster students' continuity of learning from primary to high school by offering the same language as the local high school.
Communicate this decision to the high school and involve language teachers from both schools to ease students' transition from Stage 3 to Stage 4.
Funding for the program
Your school can apply for funding through the Community Languages Program K–6 (CLP) if you have a:
- qualified teacher
- high number of student enrolments from a particular language background.
Schools in the CLP are required to follow the CLP guidelines (PDF 465 KB).
When you join the CLP, ensure equity in access for your students. Offer the community language to all students, or offer a different language to non-background speakers.
Many language programs in primary schools are school-funded. These programs are more flexible than the CLP and are often delivered during relief from face-to-face teaching time (RFF).
Supporting your language teachers
As a supervisor, it is important to provide support to your language teachers. This support includes meeting their wellbeing needs by:
- ensuring they are not isolated as the only language teacher in the school
- sufficiently resourcing the program
- providing access to curriculum and pedagogical support as required
- encouraging engagement with relevant professional learning and teacher networks
- familiarising yourself with the Modern Languages K–10 Syllabus (2022) by completing the one-hour, accredited microlearning Modern Languages K–10 Syllabus – from planning to practice in Years K–6.