The Power of Language Learning at JPC

Building Global Citizens Through Language Education

At St John Paul II College, we believe that language learning opens doors to new cultures, perspectives, and opportunities. Our Languages Faculty offers students the chance to study Korean, Chinese, and French—developing valuable skills that extend well beyond the classroom.

Strong Foundations in Years 7 and 8

All students in Years 7 and 8 study one language for two consecutive years. This model ensures students can move beyond basic vocabulary to build meaningful communication skills and cultural understanding.

Cultural Highlights – Term 1

This term, students enjoyed a variety of cultural experiences linked to their language learning:

✔️ Lion Dance Workshops – Students took part in dynamic, hands-on workshops to explore Chinese New Year traditions.
✔️ Korean Fan Drawing – Korean students combined art and language, using vocabulary to describe colours, patterns, and techniques in traditional fan design.

Student Voices

“The lion dance workshop was incredible! I never thought I'd get to see the lion dance so close. It helped me understand Chinese New Year traditions so much better than just reading about them.”
“Learning to draw Korean fans wasn't just about art—we had to use Korean vocabulary to describe the designs and colours. It made the language feel more real and connected to something beautiful.”

Looking Ahead

✔️ JPC Lion Dance Team – Training begins in Term 2. This student group will perform at community events including the Multicultural Festival, Floriade, and school celebrations.
✔️ French Fencing Incursion – A unique opportunity for our French classes to engage in one of France’s most iconic sports.

Global Connections – Language Tours 2026

We are excited to announce plans for overseas immersion trips to China and France in 2026. These experiences will provide students with the chance to practise their language skills in real-life contexts while exploring the cultures they have studied.

Pathways for Senior Students

Students who stopped language study after Year 8 can opt into Beginning Chinese, Beginning French, or Beginning Korean in the senior years—allowing them to reconnect with language learning or start fresh with a new one.

New Korean Language Opportunity for Years 9 & 10

In response to strong student interest in Korean culture, we are excited to introduce a beginner Korean pathway for Years 9 and 10 starting next year. This opportunity is open to all students, regardless of previous language choices.
"We’ve seen tremendous interest in Korean language and culture," says Mrs Li. "This new pathway ensures students can engage with Korean language learning, even if they began with a different language."

Why Language Learning Matters

Learning another language at JPC fosters:

✔️ Critical thinking and problem-solving
✔️ Enhanced memory and cognitive development
✔️ Greater empathy and cultural awareness
✔️ Improved employment and travel opportunities
✔️ A deeper understanding of one's own language

Join the Journey

Whether students are just beginning their language journey or extending their skills, JPC’s Languages Program offers rich opportunities for growth, creativity, and global citizenship.

For more information about language opportunities at JPC, please contact the Languages Department.

Mrs Jie Li
Languages Faculty Coordinator