Learning Through Two Languages

The Greek Bilingual Curriculum Program at Lalor North Primary School holds a proud and historic place in Australian education. Established in 1977 by visionary educator Jim Polites, it is the longest-running bilingual program in Victoria and remains a model of excellence in bilingual education, recognised both nationally and internationally for its outstanding student outcomes in both English and Greek.  We are deeply proud of this unique and growing in enrolments program, which continues to flourish thanks to the unwavering support of our families and global Greek community.

A Rich Bilingual Experience from Prep to Year 6

Offered from Prep through to Year 6, the Greek Bilingual Program provides students with a comprehensive, content-based bilingual education, enabling them to develop full bilingualism making it one of the most extensive programs of its kind in Victoria. The Victorian Curriculum 2.0 is taught to all students.  In line with our 50/50 bilingual model, 50% of the curriculum is delivered in Macedonian, equating to approximately 9 to 12 hours per week of Greek language instruction.  The Greek language  teaching allows students to learn the language and through the language in a natural, immersive environment. Specialist areas such as Physical Education,STEAM and Visual Art are taught in English by specialist teachers.

Greek Bilingual Education Support Staff...

Bilingual Education Support Staff support the program and in the classrooms by translating English resources and/or modifying Greek texts. The role of the Bilingual Support Staff is to also listen to the students read on a daily basis and provide support in the classroom. The Greek Bilingual Program has a well-resourced Greek library which the children enjoy.

Collaborative Teaching in the Greek Bilingual Program

Each class in the Greek Bilingual Program is supported by a dedicated team of two teachers; one delivering instruction in English and the other in Greek. These educators work in close collaboration to plan and deliver a rich, integrated curriculum that aligns with all areas of the Victorian Curriculum.

Our approach fosters deep connections between learning areas and encourages students to explore concepts through both languages, enhancing their critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity. Learning is student-centred, with opportunities for inquiry, collaboration, and self-directed exploration, allowing students to take greater ownership of their learning journey.

Each class follows a carefully structured weekly timetable, ensuring an equitable balance between English and Greek instruction. While only one teacher is in the classroom at a time, both work as a cohesive team to maintain continuity, consistency, and depth in learning across both languages.

This dual-teacher model not only supports bilingualism and bi-literacy, but also provides a diverse and dynamic classroom environment where students are immersed in a truly global education.

Celebrating Culture and Community in the Greek Bilingual Program

The Greek Bilingual Curriculum Program at Lalor North Primary School offers students meaningful opportunities to connect with and celebrate both Australian and Greek cultures. The program is designed to foster bilingual communication skills, cultural pride, and a respectful understanding of multicultural values.

Students explore Greek traditions and cultural practices through a variety of engaging, hands-on experiences. These include celebrating Easter (with traditional egg dyeing and cracking activities), participating in cultural cooking sessions, and acknowledging significant Greek National Days, such as Ohi Day and Greek Independence Day. These activities help bring the language to life in authentic and memorable ways, strengthening students’ cultural knowledge and language fluency.

A key highlight of the school year is the Annual Bilingual Concert, where students perform in both Greek and English. Through music, dance, drama, storytelling, and public speaking, students proudly showcase their bilingual skills while developing confidence and creative expression.

Strong ties with the Greek community are an essential part of the program. Students regularly participate in Christmas celebrations, local community events, and performances for senior citizens, creating a bridge between school life and the wider community. They also take part in whole-school cultural days and special events, ensuring they are fully integrated into the life of the school while enjoying unique bilingual learning opportunities.

Through these experiences, students develop into confident, respectful, and culturally literate young people, equipped to thrive in a diverse and interconnected world.