FAQ

FAQ

Which languages are included in the NALSSP?

  • Chinese (Mandarin)
  • Japanese
  • Indonesian 
  • Korean

How much funding will be provided under the NALSSP?

$62 million over 2008–09 to 2011–12.

What are the objectives of the NALSSP?

The NALSSP aims to:

  • significantly increase the number of Australian students becoming proficient at learning the languages and understanding the cultures of our main Asian neighbours – China, Indonesia, Japan and Korea.
  • increase the number of qualified Asian language teachers 
  • develop a specialist curriculum for advanced students.

Will languages other than Mandarin, Japanese, Indonesian and Korean still be taught in Australian schools?

The Australian Government is committed to quality languages education in Australian schools. State and territory governments are able to make decisions about the types of languages offered in primary and secondary schools.

How can my school access NALSSP funding?

A significant proportion of total NALSSP funding has been provided to state and territory government and non-government education authorities for distribution in their jurisdictions. While the Australian Government is committed to supporting the teaching and learning of languages, and the understanding of cultures, in Australian schools, funding under NALSSP ceases in June 2012. For further information on funding and support for languages education, speak to your local education authority, as languages education in schools is primarily a responsibility of state and territory education authorities.

How can teachers develop their knowledge of Asian cultures?

The National Statement for Engaging Young Australians with Asia in Australian Schools (2006) provides a rationale for studies of Asia, guidance on embedding studies of Asia within the curriculum and information for teachers as well as parents and the community.

The Asia Education Foundation has promoted and supported studies of Asia since 1992. They have produced a wide range of Asia-related print and electronic materials for Australian schools and are resourced to organise professional learning opportunities for teachers in studies of Asia.

How will learning one of the NALSSP languages benefit my child?

As more Australian trade takes place within the Asian region, Australian businesses will need employees who are able to engage confidently with our key regional neighbours. Knowledge and understanding of Asian languages and cultures will be a huge advantage for Australia’s future workforce in our increasingly globalised economy.

What support or development opportunities are currently available for language teachers?

The Australian Government’s Endeavour Language Teacher Fellowships provide opportunities for practising and trainee teachers to improve their language and cultural skills through an overseas short-term study program. The Fellowships take place over a three-week period in January each year.

The Australian Government has commissioned a number of national language reports under the Schools Languages Program. Information on these projects, including copies of the reports, are available at: www.deewr.gov.au/languageseducation

There are also a number of language teacher associations, including for teachers of the four target Asian languages, at both the national and state and territory level.  These organisations can provide valuable support and professional development to language teachers.