At Newport Lakes Primary School, every student from Foundation to Year 6 participates in our Auslan program, developing valuable communication skills while fostering an understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture.
Through interactive games, songs, digital technologies and puppetry, students learn to communicate using Auslan in engaging and meaningful ways. In the junior years, students build a strong foundation by learning basic signs, including numbers, colours, animals and the Auslan alphabet through fingerspelling.
As students progress through the middle and senior years, they expand their vocabulary and develop confidence in using facial expressions, body language and visual gestures to communicate effectively. They learn to sign short texts and stories, recognising the important role that expression plays in Auslan.
Our Auslan program aims to build an inclusive school community by breaking down communication barriers and encouraging students to value accessible communication. By promoting the use and understanding of Auslan, we hope to contribute to a more inclusive and connected future for the Deaf community.
Learning a second language is critical for young brains. Research has shown that learners develop a deeper understanding of their own language, which in turn improves performance in English literacy. Furthermore, studies in a second language foster interest and respect for other cultures, encourage critical thinking and open up future career prospects.
