Newcastle High School

Quality education in a caring environment

Telephone02 4969 3177

Emailnewcastle-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Faculty Focus: World Languages

World Languages Image

Japanese & French Report

Exciting changes are coming to the language curriculum at NHS! From 2025, Japanese will be studied by all Year 7 students. This decision reflects the school’s commitment to broadening linguistic and cultural horizons while ensuring students gain valuable global skills. This initiative is part of a united front to enhance language education at NHS.

Pathways in Languages at NHS

 Students at NHS can continue their language studies into Stage 5, with three pathways available: French, Italian, and Japanese. This diverse offering allows students to deepen their understanding of different cultures and enhance their future career prospects in an increasingly interconnected world.

Ube Report – Strengthening Global Connections

As part of our international engagement, NHS is continuing to foster relationships with Ube, Japan. Our recent visit highlights the growing ties between our students and their Japanese counterparts, providing valuable cultural exchanges and learning experiences. Additionally, The Ube partnership also includes a speech competition, spearheaded at our school by Mrs. Vandermeer. The Ube speech competition winners from selected high schools in the Hunter region will have the exciting opportunity to travel to Japan, further immersing themselves in the language and culture. Mrs Vandermeer has also been working on fostering connections with local industries and past organisations to provide students with real-world language applications and ensuring we continue our Ube connections and a legacy for years to come.  

Discover Japanese Writing at Hiragana Club!

 Hiragana Club at NHS is a fun and friendly club that helps students learn how to read and write Hiragana, one of Japan’s three writing systems. Whether you’re a beginner or want to practice, everyone is welcome.

We explore Japanese culture, language, and play games. It’s a great way to develop new skills and meet others who share an interest in Japan.

Sessions are relaxed, creative, and open to all year levels. Come along and give it a try!

7S GATS 2024 Folio – Outstanding Works in French

Our Year 7S Gifted and Talented Students (GATS) have produced outstanding folio projects, showcasing their creativity and linguistic progress. The 2024 folio includes exceptional works in French, featuring student projects and visual representations of their learning journey. This initiative will continue this year, further celebrating student achievements in Japanese language studies.

Exciting French School Connection Program at Newcastle High School!

We are attempting to introduce a French school connection program, designed to enhance students' language skills and cultural awareness through real-world interactions. This initiative will allow our prospective French students to engage in regular communication with native French speakers, in their age group improving their reading and writing proficiency while gaining valuable insights into French culture, traditions, and daily life. Beyond language learning, this program fosters personal growth by encouraging empathy, open-mindedness, and confidence in using French in authentic contexts. We look forward to seeing our students build meaningful international friendships and broaden their global perspectives if the program goes ahead.

Experience Europe with Our New French Italians: Food, Fashion & Football Course!

 Mrs Biasiol was excited to launch our new French Italians: Food, Fashion & Football course in Year 8. This vibrant program offers students a chance to explore the best of European culture. From mastering the art of fresh pasta and tasting delicious French pastries to stepping into the stylish worlds of Milan and Paris fashion.

For the football enthusiasts, we dive into the passion behind Europe’s most famous clubs and legendary players. Students can sample authentic French and Italian foods and visit local Italian restaurants as part of the course experience.

Whether you’re a foodie, a fashion fan, or football mad, this course brings French and Italian culture to life. Open to year 8, it’s a fun and engaging way to learn something new.

Stay tuned for more updates on our language programs and international initiatives at NHS!