Japanese has been taught at OLR since 1993. The Nihongo is taught from Prep and the students study a mix of the Japanese language and culture. As the focus is on communication, lessons are based on speaking and listening skills with some written language.
Through the experience of an other language, students have the opportunity to further develop their communication skills. As Japanese is also studied in many high schools, it can assist in making the transition to secondary schooling easier and may assist in employment opportunities later in life. Learning other languages can also provide insights into the working of language in general and the skills learned can be transferred to other language learning experiences.
Through the Japanese program students gain cultural awareness by learning about a culture other than their own, understanding similarities and differences. They become aware of the customs, traditions and celebrations of the Japanese people.