A French Immersion Program at St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge is equipping students with advanced language skills while enhancing academic performance and cultural awareness.
Harmony Week Focuses on Language and Cultural Connection in Bracken Ridge
As Australia celebrates Harmony Week from 18 to 24 March, St John Fisher College in Bracken Ridge is highlighting how language education can go beyond vocabulary and grammar to foster inclusivity and global citizenship.
The college’s French Immersion Program is at the centre of this initiative, offering students the chance to engage deeply with another culture while strengthening their academic capabilities.
A Shift From Traditional Language Learning
The program, available to selected Year 8 and 9 students, delivers Religion lessons entirely in French. Principal Britt Gurnett said the model, known as Content and Language Integrated Learning, is “anything but traditional” and helps students “think in another language”. This immersive strategy is recognised internationally for enabling natural language acquisition through real-world academic use.
Students continue standard French classes alongside immersion, reinforcing grammar and vocabulary while building fluency through subject-based application.
Research Supports the Immersion Approach
Principal Gurnett cited research showing that immersive language programs improve problem-solving, adaptability, and learning habits. The program’s success is reflected in student outcomes, with some achieving perfect subject scores.
Early language acquisition enables participants to commence Senior French in Year 10, with the option to complete Extension French in Year 12.
St John Fisher College is one of only four schools in Queensland to offer Year 12 French Extension.
Real-World Cultural Experiences
In September 2024, the program’s commitment to cultural learning was extended through a 12-day educational trip to Paris, involving 38 students and five staff.
The excursion reinforced classroom lessons with direct cultural engagement. The school also offers a French Immersion Choir, giving students another platform to practise language in a creative setting.
Promoting Global Citizenship in Bracken Ridge
The program’s broader aim is to build cultural competence and global awareness. Principal Gurnett said it’s “not just about learning French.” It’s learning about different cultures. She noted that skills such as communication, adaptability, and cultural appreciation are critical in today’s connected world.
While the program strengthens language skills, it also builds self-discipline, motivation, mental flexibility, and critical thinking. Students complete the same Religion curriculum and assessments as their peers—but entirely in French—enhancing both language development and academic resilience.
Published 28-Mar-2025
Photo Credit: Supplied
