Students from Sts Peter and Paul Primary School, Garran have ‘travelled’ to a Japanese classroom in Osaka via Skype, to participate in a language and cultural exchange.

The students introduced themselves to the class in Japanese and shared information about their ages, families, travel experiences to Japan and their favourite Japanese things.

Initially, the Japanese class did not know that our students were Australian. They took turns guessing what country they lived in. There were a few failed attempts such as Russia, Canada and New Zealand before they settled on Australia. 

The Japanese students asked Sts Peter and Paul students questions about the Australian national flag, animals and climate. They also shared information about their own culture.

The group enjoyed speaking in both languages and experiencing the two cultures. Making a connection like this between two classrooms in two countries was a unique opportunity.

“Learning a foreign language can be difficult without contact with native speakers,” said Japanese teacher, Amanda de Jongh. “This was a fantastic opportunity for students to hear and speak Japanese and be understood.”

Many of the children received a round of applause from their new Japanese friends which was both encouraging and affirming. 

The group is looking forward to their next Skype session!