The Languages curriculum at John Wollaston equips students with the knowledge, skills, and understanding necessary to communicate effectively and appropriately in another language. From Pre-Primary to Year 8, students study Japanese, with the option to continue through Years 9 to 12.

For students from Pre-Primary to Year 6, Japanese is integrated into John Wollaston’s International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. In the early stages of language learning, emphasis is placed on building confidence in understanding and responding to familiar phrases and questions, as well as copying and engaging with short authentic Japanese texts. As students progress, they develop the ability to comprehend, communicate, read, write, and express opinions on a range of topics. They are gradually introduced to the Japanese scripts of Hiragana, Katakana, and Kanji, becoming proficient in using these characters for reading and writing.

Each year, students are introduced to the wonders of Japanese culture and have the opportunity to practice their language skills when John Wollaston hosts exchange students from Shizuoka Gakuen, our sister school in Japan. The School also celebrates Languages Week annually, with students participating in various Japanese cultural activities.