Whether you have some knowledge of the Greek language you wish to study or are starting from the beginning, the benefits of language learning for your education and personal development will be long-lasting.
The NSW School of Languages is a distance education school run by the Department of Education that offers 12 languages (including Modern Greek) for study from Years 9 to 12. The courses are taught in a blended model that includes online coursework (completed at home school) and a weekly speaking lesson (delivered online).
To find out more about the Greek language courses offered by the NSW School of Languages, The Greek Herald spoke with Athina Papanikolaou, the Relieving Head Teacher of Modern Greek and Italian at the school.
What do your Greek language classes offer students?
At our school, students can start their Modern Greek studies in Year 9 and continue to study up to Year 12. We offer all HSC courses: Beginners, Continuers and Extension. Students can access the online course from their own school. They have weekly one-on-one speaking lessons with their teacher. Our highly experienced teachers support each student’s learning needs with individual feedback and instruction.
In addition to weekly one-on-one speaking lessons, students have the opportunity to come to our school in Petersham and attend face-to-face lesson days. Once a term, students can meet their teachers and peers and participate in a range of educational activities. They can practise their speaking, listening, reading, writing and grammar skills and learn new vocabulary through creative and interactive methodologies and a range of vibrant cultural activities including cooking, music, dancing.
What are the benefits of a public distance education for language?
Flexibility is undoubtedly a great benefit of distance language learning. Distance education is good for independent learners. We cater for students from all education sectors who want to study a language that is not offered at their school.
Learning is supported through a diverse program of online courses, speaking lessons, video conferencing and email.
Why do you encourage people to enrol in classes for 2024?
Greek has been classified as one of the twelve priority languages of wider use in Australia and is taught in all states and territories in a variety of systems and levels of education.
Learn Greek the smart way with courses at NSW School of Languages. With the guidance of our experienced and passionate teachers the courses are structured to meet the needs of every student in a blended learning environment. Our teachers have experience in developing, marking and assessing external exams such as the HSC, and can pass on invaluable experience, knowledge and skills to their students to best prepare them for their HSC studies and beyond.
In 2022, the NSW School of Languages achieved 1st, 5th, 7th and 10th in the State for Modern Greek Beginners; 2nd, 5th and 9th in the State for Modern Greek Continuers.
Is there anything else you’d like to say?
While some of us learn a language because of our background and desire to better communicate with relatives, maybe we should learn a language so we can embark on a journey of discovery. Why not start your Odyssey now?
Enrolments for 2024 for Modern Greek courses at the NSW School of Languages are open now. Find out more here.
