Languages

James Hargest College honours cultural diversity.  This is reflected in our vibrant new Languuages' Suite, where the cultures of the world are brought to life.  

Through language learning, students are encouraged to open their minds to the world around them, which in turn opens doors to life opportunities.  We are proud to offer six different languages at a variety of levels.

 The students have a taste of French, Japanese, Latin, Maori and Spanish at Year 7 and 8.  They can then choose to continue with up to 4 of them in the first term of Year  9,  before choosing 2 to continue with.  German can be picked up at Year 12.

Te reo, he taonga

French

The French are proud of their language and their culture, and we aim to reflect the reason for this in our study of French.  A strong cultural flavour runs through all levels of French study.  This includes a focus on topics relevant to today's world, such as new technology, fashion and food, and youth issues. 

Noumea Trip

German

This course uses a communicative approach, where students learn how to communicate with native speakers of the language.  German is offered at Year 12 and Year 13.  During the course of these two years, NCEA Level One and Level Three are offered. 

Japanese

The study of Japanese becomes alive at James Hargest College with annual Kumagaya sister city exchanges.  Students can interact with native speakers, and have the opportunity to visit Japan as part of our exchange programmes and cultural trips.  Japan is one of New Zealand's major trading partners and companies often seek bilingual employees. 

Japan Trip     Hargest Happenings Japan Trip

Kumagaya Nishi's Visit     Kumagaya City Hall's Visit

Latin

The study of Latin is important to extend our knowledge of the life and language of a great civilisation which continues to have a profound effect on our world today.  This subject is invaluable for overseas travel or further study in Dentistry, Horticulture, Classics, Architecture, Medicine, Pharmacy, Veterinary and Law. 

Hargest Happenings Italy and Greece Trip

Maori

The study of Te Reo Maori will give students an understanding of New Zealand's founding culture, while opening doors to careers in areas such as education, health, and government departments. 

Spanish

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages around the world, and consequently its popularity in education is increasing.  Spanish will be taught through to Year 13 for the first time in 2009. 

 Hargest Happenings Spain Trip

Throughout the department, we aim to provide our students with regular opportunities to interact with native speakers.  We offer trips and cultural exchanges to countries such as Italy, Spain, Japan and New Caledonia.