Senior School Languages other than English

Two languages other than English are taught at St Mary’s College – Japanese and Italian. Students begin Japanese in the junior classes from Prep. All students study Japanese and Italian in grades 7 and 8 with the option of continuing their language studies through to Senior Secondary and pre-tertiary level. The Curriculum in the senior school follows the guidelines of both the Tasmanian Curriculum and the Australian Curriculum. Senior Secondary language studies follow the TQA Syllabuses.

The Language programs focus on learning and using Italian and Japanese to communicate. Students engage in learning about and gaining an understanding of one’s own culture through comparison with those of Italy and Japan, and developing a greater acceptance of all cultures. Our Italian teacher is a native speaker.

As part of the study of LoTE at St Mary’s College are the much anticipated trips to Japan and Italy for girls in grades 9 to 12. This is the opportunity for firsthand experience of the culture and practice of the language.

Yaizu Visits

School families host students from Hobart’s sister city, Yaizu every year. These visits are greatly enjoyed, not only by the host families, but by the students throughout the school. Students who then take part in the Japan trip are often hosted by these same students.

Japanese Assistant Teacher

Each year, we host a Japanese Assistant Teacher who participates in all Japanese classes throughout the school from Prep to Grade 12.  This is a great opportunity for students to converse with and to gain a better understanding about the Japanese culture from a native speaker.

Japanese at University

Eligible senior students have the opportunity to study and attain 1st  year level Japanese concurrently with their pre-tertiary studies. They are also able to participate in the High Achievers program and attain 2nd year level Japanese while still at school.

Trip to Japan

A trip to Japan is held every two years.  Girls from Grade 9 to 12 have the opportunity to see and participate in many aspects of culture through visiting various cities. One of the highlights for the girls is always the home stay with a Japanese family and the school experience in Yaizu, Hobart’s sister city. Longer exchanges are also available.

Trip to Italy

Girls from grades 9 to 12 have the opportunity to visit Italy and stay with families in Trento and Assisi.  They experience what it is like to live with an Italian family, attend school and sample much gelato!  Their Italian also improves!  It is also a great opportunity to visit the many historical and cultural sites.

Exchange Program with Trento

We are currently negotiating an exchange program with our new sister school in Trento where students will be able to spend extended periods of time in the sister school.

	For information about enrolling in our Senior School, please contact the Enrolments Officer by email, telephone (03) 6234 3381, or view or download the Senior School brochure.