Languages

We offer three languages at Westminster School. They are Chinese, German and Japanese.

In Year 7, students choose one language to study, then continue into Year 8 and 9. From Year 10, Languages become an elective.

It is not any harder than other academic subjects. We encourage students to work hard and do their best.

Yes, all three Languages offer opportunities for students to use their language in real-life situations. We have exchange programs and language and cultural trips to the target language speaking countries. You can find out more information about these from your Language teacher.

Learning another Language has many social, mental and economic benefits.

• It helps you to explore other cultures and have a different perspective on life and prepare you to live and work in the global world.
• It boosts brainpower and improves memory and develops strong cognitive abilities.
• It sharpens key learning skills such as better concept formation and mental flexibility, creativity, problem-solving and critical thinking.
• It expands career potential and creates more employment opportunities.

Having another Language provides great options and opportunities for your future career. It increases your employment prospects. It is a unique skill which will make you stand out.

There are many future directions available for students who have completed Stage 2 Languages. Language can be used in the following:

• Tertiary study, as part of many degree courses, such as Commerce, Business, Law, Accounting, Tourism, Education, International Studies and International Relations, etc.
• More specific language study, such as Bachelor of Languages and Diploma in Languages
• Scholarships and international exchanges available at tertiary level to study in the target language-speaking countries

Furthermore, students are awarded two adjustment factors for entrance to most university courses. (Previously known as bonus points).

For further information to study a language at South Australian universities, please go to https://future.ask.adelaide.edu.au/app/answers/detail/a_id/2489/~/studying-a-language

https://www.flinders.edu.au/study/courses/bachelor-languages

https://study.unisa.edu.au/languages/

Gap years are a popular break for students before starting further study or entering the workforce. There are many gap year opportunities overseas for students including in Asia and Europe. Why not make use of your Language learning experience in a different culture, gain experience in the workforce and develop your resilience and international understanding by taking a gap year in Japan, China or one of the many Chinese-speaking countries, or one of the many German-speaking European countries.