St Monica’s College, under the visionary leadership of Principal Mr Brian Hanley OAM, stands out as a beacon of excellence in language education.
With a firm belief in the power of bilingualism to shape strong global citizens, the school offers a unique language program where students can choose from five different languages, with at least one being compulsory from year 7 to year 9.
Greek, in particular, is gaining popularity and cultural significance at St Monica’s.
The rise of Greek Language
Greek, at St Monica’s College, has witnessed a surge in popularity, especially among students of Greek descent. The school boasts a dedicated team of four Greek teachers and one Greek language assistant, all committed to providing an authentic and immersive language learning experience. Their goal extends beyond linguistic proficiency, encompassing a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of cultures associated with the Greek language.
The Language Immersion Team
In 2022, St Monica’s College introduced a ground breaking teaching approach – the ‘Language Immersion Team.’ This initiative offers students additional support from the Greek assistant, enhancing language use, differentiating instruction based on varying abilities, and organising activities to immerse students further in the chosen language. As students progress, the focus shifts towards preparing for VCE, with the Greek assistant playing a crucial role in refining language skills and building confidence in conversational settings.
Cultural initiatives and excursions
To deepen the cultural connection, the Greek assistant has organised various initiatives and excursions. Students have explored the Hellenic Museum, delving into Greek history, mythology, and enjoying authentic Greek cuisine in Melbourne’s CBD. Senior students have engaged with the Greek Cypriot community, visiting a nursing home and interacting with elders, fostering respect for the foundations of the Greek community in Melbourne. These initiatives emphasize the cultural experiences that shape language use.
Language Week
St Monica’s Language Faculty is committed to providing a diverse range of activities. The introduction of ‘Language Week’ exemplifies this commitment. The week is filled with fun, language, and culture-based activities designed to cultivate a love for language learning. Students participate in their version of the Olympic Games and a LOTE music and art festival, showcasing talents and fostering a sense of inclusivity. Special guests, including Dr. Georgia Nikolaidou, Deputy Education Coordinator from Greece, further enrich the week with cultural insights.
At St Monica’s College, the dedication to language education goes beyond mere linguistic proficiency. The school’s innovative Language Immersion Team, cultural initiatives, and Language Week showcase a holistic approach to language learning. By fostering a rich and immersive environment, St Monica’s College is shaping not only bilingual but culturally aware and globally minded citizens, preparing them for success in an interconnected world.
