Auslan in Schools

Why Schools Choose Auslan

Teaching Auslan provides benefits that extend beyond language learning.

With our Auslan program, schools can:

• Offer a unique and engaging Languages program
• Foster inclusion and accessibility
• Build awareness of Deaf culture and community
• Support deaf and hard of hearing students
• Develop respectful and culturally responsive learners
• Strengthen student understanding of diversity and communication

For schools with deaf or hard of hearing students, Auslan helps create an environment where language, identity and belonging are actively valued.

Authentic Language Learning Through Immersion

Language learning is most effective when students engage directly with fluent language users.

Our Auslan programs are delivered by experienced Deaf educators who use Auslan as their everyday and preferred language. Through immersive classroom experiences, students develop communication skills while learning about the values, perspectives and cultural practices of Australia’s Deaf community. As a result, students do more than learn signs; they learn to communicate in a visual language and engage with the culture that shapes it.

Curriculum-Aligned from Years 1-10

Our Auslan language programs are designed to support schools in meeting Australian Curriculum requirements while providing a rich and engaging learning experience.

Students develop:

• Receptive and expressive Auslan skills
• Visual communication strategies
• Intercultural understanding
• Cultural awareness and inclusion
• Knowledge of Deaf history, identity and community
• Real-world communication confidence

Programs include lesson sequencing, assessment activities and reporting support aligned to curriculum outcomes.

For students commencing Auslan in Year 7, Deaf Connect recommends approximately two hours of learning per week. Regular exposure to the language supports deeper engagement, stronger communication skills and successful achievement of Australian Curriculum learning outcomes.

Learn from Deaf Educators

Every Deaf Connect educator brings authentic language skills and lived cultural experience into the classroom.

Our educators:

• Use Auslan as their primary language
• Have extensive experience delivering Auslan education
• Maintain strong connections within local Deaf communities
• Provide students with authentic language models
• Create engaging and culturally rich learning experiences

This direct connection to language and culture gives students a deeper, more meaningful learning experience than textbooks and instruction alone.

Complete Program Delivery

Deaf Connect provides a comprehensive service, allowing schools to deliver a high-quality Auslan program with confidence.

What’s Included

• Weekly Auslan lessons (45-60 minutes)
• Curriculum-aligned teaching and learning programs
• Lesson planning and preparation
• Assessment development and delivery
• Resource creation
• Student workbooks and learning materials
• Administration support
• Reporting and curriculum consultation
• Interpreter support where required

Flexible Delivery Across Australia

Our programs can be delivered:

Face-to-Face: In-school classes delivered by Deaf Connect educators

Online: Live, interactive lessons over Zoom that make quality Auslan education accessible to both regional and remote schools throughout Australia.

Building Inclusive School Communities

Partnering with Deaf Connect gives students access to an authentic language-learning experience while helping schools foster inclusion, accessibility and respect for Deaf culture.

We prioritise partnerships with schools that have deaf or hard of hearing students, helping create learning environments where every student can participate, connect and thrive.