Learning another language invites students to step beyond the familiar and discover new ways of thinking, communicating and engaging with the world around them. At 91ÊÓƵ, the Languages Learning Area encourages curiosity about other cultures, while developing the practical skills needed to communicate across languages and communities.
Language learning is academically challenging, highly practical, deeply rewarding, and lots of fun! Research shows that students who continue to study an additional language develop stronger literacy skills, improve their cognitive flexibility and creativity, gain increased confidence in communicating, and enhance their intercultural understanding. These benefits extend well beyond the Languages classroom, strengthening learning across the wider curriculum, and into post-school-life.
91ÊÓƵ has a long-standing reputation for excellence in Languages education. Our programs combine academic rigour with authentic cultural learning, enabling students to explore the histories, traditions, beliefs and perspectives that shape language and culture. Students work with native language users and meaningful texts – they are exposed to real-world cultural contexts, and they have access to contemporary resources and technologies. They have the opportunity to participate in exchange programs, and various collaborative projects and events with partner schools and communities – locally, nationally and internationally.
Language Selection For Years 7 And 8
In Year 7, students commence the study of one of four languages at 91ÊÓƵ: Auslan (Australian Sign Language), Chinese (Mandarin), French or Japanese. Students continue studying their chosen language through Years 7 and 8 as part of the compulsory secondary Languages program in WA. Students who have a keen interest and aptitude are strongly encouraged to continue their language studies beyond Year 8. Ongoing language study can enrich students’ academic pathways, and broaden opportunities for them in Senior School and beyond.
Important 91ÊÓƵ For Families
Languages courses taught at 91ÊÓƵ are designed for second-language learners, beginning in Year 7, and continuing through to ATAR courses in Upper Senior School. Programs are not designed for first-language or background speakers, and students cannot switch to a new language in later years. As an important note to parents and caregivers, there are regulations regarding eligibility for language studies in Upper Senior School which should be carefully considered at time of Language enrolment choice for Year 7:Â
Continuing Languages Beyond Year 8
From Year 9 onwards, Languages becomes an elective academic subject. Students who opt to continue study in a particular language will undertake increasingly sophisticated work in communication, cultural understanding and language structures. Continuing to formally study a language beyond Year 8 requires commitment – but offers significant enjoyment;Â a sense of belonging and camaraderie in the Languages classroom;Â and provides both intellectual rewards and future vocational benefits.
Auslan at 91ÊÓƵ
91ÊÓƵ is extremely proud of its Auslan program, developed in partnership with the 91ÊÓƵ Deaf Education Centre. This unique collaboration – the only one of its kind in WA – enables the study of Auslan from Years 7–12, and provides opportunities for hearing and deaf students to engage in a genuine and meaningful way with each other. Students – both hearing and deaf – may pursue formal Auslan studies through to an ATAR pathway in Year 11 and 12, and they may be able to complete Certificate III in Auslan in Year 10, and Certificate IV in Auslan in Year 11, providing alternative pathways to work or further study.
Languages For Life
Ultimately, learning a language at 91ÊÓƵ is about far more than mastering vocabulary or grammar. Whether studying Auslan, Chinese, French or Japanese, students gain lifelong skills that shape the way they understand and engage with the world. Through the experience of communicating across cultures, they develop empathy, resilience and confidence, learning to navigate unfamiliar situations and difference with curiosity and respect. Language learning encourages students to challenge assumptions, appreciate diverse perspectives, and move beyond stereotypes, strengthening their capacity for thoughtful and meaningful social interaction. In an increasingly interconnected world, these experiences nurture adaptable, open-minded young people – who are prepared not only for academic success, but also for active and compassionate participation in society as global citizens.
