The teaching of languages is optional in NSW primary schools.

Schools offering a language program teach from one of the 4 languages syllabuses:

• Aboriginal Languages K–10 (2022)
• Auslan K–10 (2023)
• Classical Languages K–10 (2022)
• Modern Languages K–10 (2022).

Developing an understanding of culture is embedded in the outcomes of the Modern Languages K–10 Syllabus (2022). It is inappropriate to offer a cultural program that does not involve language teaching.

Choosing a language

Choosing the right language to offer can be overwhelming. There are over 40 languages taught in NSW primary schools.

The decision should involve consultation with the whole school community. The following considerations and case studies are here to help you make the right choice for your school's context.

Available language teachers

Consider options already available to you, such as language teachers who are:

• already employed at your school
• available to work at your school.

Local high school programs

Foster students' continuity of learning from primary to high school by offering the same language as the local high school.

Communicate this decision to the high school and involve language teachers from both schools to ease students' transition from Stage 3 to Stage 4.

Funding for the program

Your school can apply for funding through the Community Languages Program K–6 (CLP) if you have a:

• qualified teacher
• high number of student enrolments from a particular language background.

Schools in the CLP are required to follow the CLP guidelines (PDF 465 KB).

When you join the CLP, ensure equity in access for your students. Offer the community language to all students, or offer a different language to non-background speakers.

Many language programs in primary schools are school-funded. These programs are more flexible than the CLP and are often delivered during relief from face-to-face teaching time (RFF).

Supporting your language teachers

As a supervisor, it is important to provide support to your language teachers. This support includes meeting their wellbeing needs by:

• ensuring they are not isolated as the only language teacher in the school
• sufficiently resourcing the program
• providing access to curriculum and pedagogical support as required
• encouraging engagement with relevant professional learning and teacher networks
  • languages professional learning calendar and catalogue
  • the Primary languages statewide staffroom (staff only)
• familiarising yourself with the Modern Languages K–10 Syllabus (2022) by completing the one-hour, accredited microlearning Modern Languages K–10 Syllabus – from planning to practice in Years K–6.

Access support

The primary languages team can support the establishment of a school’s language program by providing advice on:

• developing and sharing an expression of interest (EOI) for language teachers
• tailoring programs to school context
• known successful models of running a primary language program
• completing the annual languages survey.

Contact the team

Email primlang@det.nsw.edu.au.

Case studies

The following case studies detail the recent experiences of primary schools seeking to establish a new language program.