Languages

Quality research, and educational experience, shows that a child’s ability to learn new skills can be increased by the process of learning a new language. In addition to this cognitive advantage, the language programs at Fitzroy North Primary School also provide students with a host of social and cultural benefits, as they learn not just the words spoken, but also about the lives of people and the places they live in around the world.

Learning an additional language improves overall school performance. It enhances student’s English literacy skills and their communication proficiency. It strengthens student’s understanding of the nature of language, culture, and the processes of communication (Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority, 2019).

Fitzroy North Primary School delivers weekly language classes for all students from prep to grade six, offering students the choice to learn either Mandarin or Italian. Italian has been a long-standing language here at Fitzroy North Primary School and Mandarin has become the world’s most widely spoken language.

In grade prep, students are introduced to the Italian language and culture through song, craft activities and role-play.

Fitzroy North Primary School also boasts a languages classroom with access to modern audio and visual technological aides, where students can participate in discussions and use the latest technology to view images or video clips and listen to an authentic text in their chosen language.

We adopt a communicative based approach in our language teaching. We use authentic experiences to incorporate real life language practice, making our classes truly engaging and meaningful to our students.

This year, Fitzroy North Primary School will host a multicultural day with traditional food stalls, cultural activities, musical and comedic performances, traditional costumes, a Chinese dancing dragon and soccer clinics.

Jiami Qiu

Jiami started teaching Mandarin language at Fitzroy North Primary School in semester 2, 2019. Being born and raised in China have given her broad understanding of Chinese culture and languages, which have become the solid foundation of teaching LOTE. Jiami’s intercultural experiences have increased her interests and passion in teaching the young children to broaden their knowledge, preparing them to be global citizens in the future.

Vince Licata

Vince began teaching at Fitzroy North Primary School in 2018. He has been teaching languages to young learners and adults in Melbourne and abroad since 2003. As part of his continued professional development, Vince has completed internationally recognised language teacher training to enrich his pedagogical approach and understanding of how languages are learned. He is passionate about his Italian heritage and culture and is driven by the importance of raising linguistic and cultural awareness in our diverse community.