At Mel Maria, Japanese is offered across both our Primary and Early Childhood campuses, fostering a love of language and culture from an early age.

The program is led by Ms Cate Cooper, a specialist teacher with over 25 years of experience and qualifications in Asian Studies and Primary Education. The program is aligned with the Western Australian Curriculum, ensuring high-quality planning, assessment and reporting.

On the Primary Campus, students from Years 3 to 6 attend lessons in a dedicated Japanese classroom. This vibrant and immersive space is a true cultural hub — thoughtfully decorated with traditional and contemporary Japanese elements, student creations, and interactive displays that reflect the rich tapestry of Japan. The classroom is designed to spark curiosity and imagination, allowing students to feel transported into another world — a place where language truly comes to life.

At the Early Childhood Campus, Year 2 students are introduced to Japanese through fun and interactive activities designed to build confidence in listening, speaking, reading and responding. These early experiences help spark interest and support a smooth transition into the more formal language learning program in later years.

Students across both campuses engage in a rich variety of interactive experiences that bring the language to life. A range of cultural incursions and special events throughout the year further enhance students’ understanding, helping them make real-world connections and deepen their appreciation of Japan’s language and culture.