Japanese

Japanese Language Program

Our school offers a dynamic and progressive Japanese program that introduces students to the language and rich culture of Japan. All students from Foundation to Year 6 participate in weekly lessons, with a strong focus on listening and speaking in an engaging, interactive environment. Through roleplays, songs and games, students build confidence in communication, while also developing literacy skills through the introduction of hiragana in Year 1 and continued reading and writing throughout their schooling. Students in Years 3–6 are also invited to participate in a weekly Japanese Club, where they engage in fun, culturally focused activities that further spark their interest in the language and traditions of Japan.

Cross Curricular Learning and Cultural Experiences

The program is enriched through strong cross-curricular connections, incorporating areas such as ICT, Music, Drama, Inquiry and Visual Arts. This allows students to experience Japanese culture in meaningful ways, from performing traditional folk tales and festival dances to participating in taiko drumming incursions. Cultural learning is further enhanced through Multicultural Days and hands-on activities such as cooking, origami, calligraphy and manga drawing.

Global Connections

Oakleigh Primary School fosters authentic global connections through its sister school partnership with Noukendai Elementary School in Yokohama, Japan. Students exchange letters, artwork and videos, while Years 5 and 6 students participate in regular video calls, deepening their intercultural understanding and real-world communication skills.

Oakleigh Education Precinct (OEP)

As part of the Oakleigh Education Precinct the school strengthens its language and cultural learning. Through this collaboration, teachers of Japanese share their expertise and develop consistent learning pathways, with a strong focus on enhancing Japanese programs across the network. Students are actively involved in the precinct through shared cultural experiences, language activities, joint events and opportunities to connect with peers across schools, supporting a continuous and enriched Japanese learning journey from primary through to secondary school.