"If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to a man in his language, that goes to his heart".
Nelson Mandela

The study of the Japanese language at A.B. Paterson College contributes to the general education of all students.  Students learn that communicating in multiple languages is a rich, challenging experience of engaging with, and participating in, the linguistic and cultural diversity of our interconnected world.  Language learning, in general, has shown to boost literacy-related capabilities that prove transferable across learning areas.  Students are encouraged to explore and recognise their own linguistic, social, and cultural practices and identities, as well as those associated with speakers of the Japanese language.

At A.B. Paterson College, students learn Japanese through both interactive and collaborative activities.  Through a range of interactive language software and online learning management systems, students learn from highly qualified native speakers, and from speakers who have spent a great deal of time in Japan.

The Junior Japanese course (from Years 4 - 6) introduces students to Japan’s rich cultural heritage and language.  Students learn how to speak about oneself, family, leisure pursuits and hobbies, to name but a few.  Both traditional and modern culture is explored with units such as robotics, animation, transport and geography. Japanese script-writing is also introduced.