Speaking the Language of Mercy Across Cultures

Mercy Light: Connecting

The benefits of studying an additional language are well-researched, suggesting the practice improves everything from our interpersonal skills to cognitive processing and memory. The Languages program at SAC offers far more than knowledge of vocabulary and grammar; it is immersive and engaging, bringing culture into the classroom. Whether they’re learning French, Chinese, Indonesian or Italian, students enjoy exploring different parts of the world, and learning more about themselves along the way.

Georgina N, together with Julia D, is a Year 12 Languages Leader, and shares how a spark lit during Year 8 French class ignited a lasting passion for the subject.

“In Year 10, I picked up Italian as well, and it felt like a natural extension. By Year 11, studying both French and Italian had given me a deep passion for languages, and over the years I have begun to learn other languages in my own time,” Georgia explains.

Georgina particularly appreciates the opportunities she’s had to explore different cultures from so close to home; a particularly fond memory is one she holds from Languages Day, when she was able to employ her love for both French and Italian during a session focused on something the cultures share a mutual affinity for: cheese.

“The session was explained in both French and Italian, with the respective language teachers present, and I was able to understand both languages throughout. I found it so fulfilling and eye-opening to be able to use two languages at once, after all the learning I had done. It gave me a great sense of enthusiasm, and affirmed that I wanted to be able to study both languages – one at SAC, and the other externally – and that they would help me in my future,” says Georgina, who was accepted into the Flinders University Extension Studies program to study French as a university subject this year.

Georgina fervently believes that the Mercy values lie at the heart of SAC’s Languages program, “…especially Courage, Respect and Compassion! I believe these values are crucial to learning a language, as there is a necessity for courage and resilience in one’s own learning process, as well as compassion for others when they are studying a language. Respect is also a key factor as it is imperative to respect other cultures when learning their language,” Georgina says.

Hospitality is also key to the program’s success. At the end of Term 2, Eva, Lena and Yvonne, all from France, joined the Year 11 cohort for a one-month period of exchange. They will be immersed in the home and school lives of SAC students, who have already developed a strong bond with their ‘sisters’ from across the seas.

Eva, Lena and Yvonne have already seen how cultural immersion is a powerful roadmap for self-discovery.

“I have learned so much about myself already,” shares Lena, “I’ve learned that I can take the bus in another country. I can travel on an airplane by myself. I can really take care of myself.”

Eliza adds, “I came here excited to learn the differences and similarities between school in Australia and in France; one thing I have found different so far is the relationship with teachers. In France, we’re very formal. Here at SAC feels more connected. It is really nice.”

Ms Prior with SAC students Alice, Jessica, Sienna and French visitors Léna, Elise, and Eva, celebrating cultural connections and growing friendships

SAC students, too, have enjoyed the experience of learning abroad for over two decades, as part of the Languages program’s exchange and study tour opportunities. Year 11 student, Alice K, who will travel to France for her own experience of exchange later in the year, loves learning from Eva, Lena and Yvonne. “It’s amazing to learn what it is like being a young person growing up in France; it really opens your eyes up to the fact that although we are very different, there is so much that’s similar for young people.”

Alice also says that the role of passionate teachers can’t be overstated. “Our teachers love language and culture, and that makes me want to immerse myself too.”

Ms Anne-Marie Prior, a French teacher who herself lived and studied in France, explains: “Our approach to language learning reflects our commitment to the whole student. You’ll see Mercy values in every interaction — in the classroom, during exchanges and study tours, and in the way we support one another.”

Students speak passionately about how their language learning will benefit them in the future. “It’s a life skill,” says Jessica S, Year 11. “Even if you don’t pursue it professionally, the ability to learn a language – and struggle through it – is something you carry with you.”

Alice agrees. “It improves your English and your communication. And it gives you this perspective: your world isn’t the only one, and it’s definitely not the main one. Learning another language puts your own life in context.”

Sienna D, another Year 11 student, reflects on the unique environment language classes foster. “The classes tend to be smaller, so you build closer relationships with classmates and teachers. It feels quite personal.”

At SAC, language learning is more than an academic pursuit. It is a pilgrimage of discovery, transformation and connection. Whether students are ordering cheese in two different languages, or travelling across the world for exchange, or simply learning to see how the cultures of the world influence Australia’s, the Languages program helps them to become global citizens, and nurtures their growth as thoughtful, courageous women of Mercy.

Ms Maddie Kelly
Marketing & Communications Team

Year 12 Languages Leaders
Julia and Georgina

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