In 2022, Mill Park Heights Primary School proudly introduced an Auslan (Australian Sign Language) exploratory program into the curriculum for students in Years 3–6. Auslan is the sign language of the Deaf community in Australia, and students are learning the southern dialect, which is the form of signing used here in Victoria.

Through weekly lessons, students develop an understanding and appreciation of Deaf culture while building their ability to communicate through this rich and highly visual language. The program encourages inclusivity, respect, and meaningful connections within our school community.

During Auslan lessons, students engage in learning and practising:

• Signing the alphabet and fingerspelling
• Counting and number signs
• Greetings and introductions, including asking and sharing names
• Topic-based vocabulary across a range of everyday themes
• Strategies for communicating effectively with people who are deaf or hard of hearing
• Recognising variations in sign language use
• Translating high-frequency classroom signs and words
• Responding to instructions delivered in sign

Students consistently embrace and actively engage in their Language – Auslan lessons, participating in thoughtful discussions about the importance of accessibility, communication, and inclusivity within our wider community.

It is always wonderful to see students showing such genuine enthusiasm during our Auslan sessions, as their engagement not only enhances their own learning but also creates a positive and inclusive environment for everyone involved. Their eagerness to participate, practise new signs, and immerse themselves in the language reflects a growing appreciation for Auslan and Deaf culture, making each session both meaningful and rewarding.