Most of our students study one or two languages other than English, broadening their global horizons.
Languages at Pembroke
Language learning is part of the fabric at Pembroke where curricular and co-curricular opportunities elevate our global, holistic education.
Proficiency in another language brings significant cultural and intellectual benefits as well as enabling young people to engage more effectively and confidently in the global community.
Students acquire transferable cognitive, social and learning skills, and a greater understanding of grammatical concepts which enhances their literacy in English.
From ELC to Year 6, students study Spanish which is offered through to Year 12. We also provide Junior School co-curricular opportunities in Mandarin, Italian, Hindi, Korean and Polish to support students to maintain and develop language skills that may be fostered at home.
In Year 7, students select two languages and study each for one semester. In Year 8, students select one or two languages and study each for the entire year.
In Years 9 to 12, students may select up to two languages.
In Years 11 and 12, the study of a language is compulsory for students undertaking the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP). In the SACE, a range of languages are offered as options, and the study of other languages within the SACE or IB may be possible via external arrangements.
Global Horizons
Languages in the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme
An additional language is a compulsory component of the IB Diploma Programme. Students can choose to continue one of the languages taught through the Middle School (except for Kaurna), or start a new ab initio (beginner) course. The ab initio courses currently offered are Indonesian and Spanish.
Languages in the SACE
SACE students can choose to continue any one of the languages taught through the Middle School (including Kaurna), or start a new Beginner course in Year 11 in Indonesian, Spanish or Kaurna.
French Semi-Immersion Program
Pembroke offers a French Semi-Immersion Program across Years 7 to 9 for students with background in French language. Accredited by the French Foreign Ministry through the LabelFrancÉducation, our program opens up enriching academic, cultural and professional opportunities including travelling, studying and working in French-speaking countries around the world.
Heritage Languages Program
To support students to deepen their knowledge of other languages and connection to cultures from their family background, co-curricular opportunities are available in certain year levels in Mandarin, Italian, Hindi, Korean and Polish, with plans in development for Greek. Some of these programs are delivered by our partner providers at School of Languages and ABC College. Auslan and Latin may also be selected as co-curricular options in some year levels.
Intensive English Support
The Pembroke Connect Program is designed to help recently arrived international students in Years 7 to 10 build strong foundations in English language proficiency and confidently settle into life at Pembroke. Our experts in English as an Additional Language (EAL) also provide support across our Junior School.
Beyond the Classroom
Language students receive a well-rounded education that fosters a deep appreciation of both their own lives and those of others. International trips, student exchanges and experiential learning programs are central to the opportunities that Pembroke provides, including:
- Spanish language and cultural immersion tour to Spain
- Spanish language exchange to Chile
- French school Homestay experience in France
- German language exchange to Germany
- Chinese language and culture immersion tour
- Kaurna Camp on Kaurna Country
These optional experiences give our students the chance to develop their language and communication skills, explore new cultures and make lifelong memories.