Languages other than English are a means of communicating across cultures and promoting socio-cultural understanding and competence. At Bray Park State High School, we believe that learning another language prepares students for meaningful, productive lives in a culturally and linguistically diverse society, helping them to connect positively with the richness of human diversity.
Foreign languages have an important place in our school curriculum because of Australia’s location in the Asia–Pacific region.
For Queenslanders, the study of Japanese is particularly valuable given the strong cultural, economic, tourism, and commercial links between Australia and Japan.
French, a spoken language of many of our Pacific neighbours, and is regarded as the language of International Relations. It is one of the official languages of the United Nations, the Olympic movement, and numerous countries around the world, allowing our students to explore global opportunities in diplomacy, travel, and business.
The Value of Learning a Language
Studying another language enhances critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity. It improves memory, communication, and intercultural understanding. These skills are highly valued in today’s globalised world. Language learning also supports success in other academic areas and strengthens students’ ability to learn additional languages in the future.
Junior Secondary
In alignment with the Australian Curriculum, learning a language is compulsory in Years 7 and 8 at Bray Park State High School. Students study either Japanese or French for three lessons per week for one semester.
In Year 9, Japanese and French are offered as electives. Students study their chosen language for three lessons per week for a semester.
Senior Secondary
French is offered from Year 7 to Year 10, giving students a strong foundation in language and culture.
Japanese is offered from Year 7 through to Year 12, allowing students to continue developing advanced language proficiency and cultural understanding throughout their schooling.
In Year 10, both Japanese and French are offered as elective subjects studied for the full year, allowing students to consolidate their language skills and prepare for senior studies.
At the senior level, Japanese is a General Subject under the QCAA. Studying Japanese contributes to a student’s ATAR and provides valuable skills for future study and employment. Some universities offer ATAR adjustments for students who study a language in Year 12, which can boost their ATAR and improve university entry opportunities.
Cultural Exchange Opportunities
Each year, Bray Park SHS welcomes over eight Japanese tour groups to our school. These visits give students the opportunity to act as buddies, engage in authentic cultural exchanges, and build lifelong friendships.
In addition, the school runs a Japan Trip every two years, providing students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, practise their language skills, and experience life in Japan first-hand.
For more information, please contact:
Head of Department – International and Excellence
Emily Baldry - ebald0@eq.edu.au