At St Patrick's School, learning languages is about connecting to others around us that may have different backgrounds and culture. It allows us to develop a deeper identity within our community, and building relationships that foster a sense of Belonging and Whanaungatanga. 

Languages are spoken in the community, used internationally, and play a role in shaping the world.  By learning an additional language, students come to appreciate that languages and cultures are organised and used in particular ways to achieve meaning. It also extends their linguistic and cultural understanding.  

(Adapted from NZC p24-25)

Within the classroom environment teachers support the development and everyday acceptance of learning languages by integrating them into everyday practice. Te Reo is placed highly within parts of the school, and other curriculum areas bring culture in to everyday learning (e.g. reading about Samoan life, exploring ancient ruins, or creating cultural artworks as part of learning). All our teachers are aware of the importance of this curriculum area, however we have differing levels of confidence and ability. 

Recognising the importance of building a welcoming, supportive, and encompassing school environment, St Patricks needs to consider where it sits in this curriculum area, and decide what languages are important in our school, to teach and learn alongside our students. We need to build on the beginning stages (e.g. the office with welcoming signs in different languages), and push out into the school in other ways. Teachers need more time to explore resources and lesson plans in this area. 

In Eden we learn and practise how to say the sign of the cross in Maori.

Elle

Kopara, kopara

Volleyball

Kadanawa

Eden turning stones into precious gems

Bethlehem created the Sri Lanakan junglefowl

Samaria creating  Hena scratch art hands

Nazareth decorated tea cups and plates.