Learning Languages at AIA
At the Australian International Academy,
Students learn languages as part of our Islamic school
ethos and the International Baccalaureate (IB) programs.
Our goal is to help students appreciate different cultures, communicate confidently, and strengthen their connection to the Arabic language and the Qur’an.
K–2 Building Foundations
In Kindergarten to Year 2, the main focus is learning to read the Qur’an correctly. Students develop early Arabic literacy skills, including:
- Recognising Arabic letters and sounds
- Reading simple words and short verses
- Practising correct pronunciation (tajwīd basics)
- Building confidence and love for Qur’anic reading
These early years are about nurturing strong foundations so students can continue their Qur’anic learning with confidence.
Years 3–6 Expanding Language Skills
From Year 3 onward, students continue developing Arabic literacy and begin using the language in simple, everyday contexts. They build vocabulary, practise speaking and listening, and strengthen their Qur’anic reading skills.
Years 7–10: Language Learning in the IB MYP
In the Middle Years Programme (Years 7–10), students study a language as part of the IB curriculum. They may choose from: (Please note that the language offerings may vary from campus to campus)
- Arabic
- Indonesian
- French
These early years are about nurturing strong foundations so students can continue their Qur’anic learning with confidence.
Choosing a Language
- Students begin their chosen language at beginner level in Year 7.
- They are placed into phases based on their prior knowledge.
- If a student is already fluent or highly proficient in one of the languages, they must choose a different one.
- The IB MYP requires students to study a language that offers genuine academic challenge.
- Therefore, background speakers cannot enrol in beginner-level courses for a language they already speak well.
Once a language is chosen in Year 7, students continue with it until the end of Year 10. This is a four-year commitment, and changing languages midway is not permitted.
Years 11–12: Language Pathways
In senior years, students have two pathways:
HSC Pathway
- Continue with the same language
- Start a new beginner level language
- Choose not to study a second language
IB Diploma Pathway
Studying a language is mandatory in the IB Diploma, either at:
- Language B (for students with prior study), or
- ab initio (beginner level)
These early years are about nurturing strong foundations so students can continue their Qur’anic learning with confidence.
New Students in Years 8–10
For students joining AIA in Years 8–10:
- Classes are differentiated so students with different proficiency levels can still learn effectively.
- If a student has prior experience in a language, they may continue at an appropriate level depending on class availability.
- Students with no background in any of the offered languages are generally encouraged to choose Arabic, with after-school support available.
- Arabic is recommended for many reasons, including its importance in Islamic learning and Qur’anic literacy.
- While we differentiate within classes, we cannot offer separate beginner classes for new students in Years 8–10.