Languages

What is learning Languages about?

Learning a new language opens doors to other cultures, new perspectives, and deeper self-awareness. At school, students explore how language is shaped by culture and how it helps us express who we are. Whether learning French, Japanese, Spanish, te reo Māori, or another language, students gain the ability to communicate across cultures and reflect on their own identity.

By learning another language, students begin to see the world through different eyes and understand how language influences thought and relationships.

Why study a Language?

Languages connect us both locally and globally.

Studying a language helps students become confident communicators and culturally aware citizens. They learn to listen, speak, read, and write in another language, while gaining insight into the beliefs, customs, and values of its speakers. This builds empathy, adaptability, and global understanding.

Language learning also boosts cognitive skills, improves memory, and enhances problem-solving. It prepares students for travel, study, and careers in an increasingly interconnected world. Most importantly, it helps them discover new ways of thinking—and new ways of being.

Chinese

Studying Chinese at Takapuna Grammar School is offered from Year 12 to those with prior knowledge of the language. The course opens up a gateway to rich cultural traditions and global opportunities. Students learn to communicate in Mandarin through speaking, listening, reading, and writing, while exploring Chinese customs, values, and contemporary life.

This course builds confidence in using the language in real-world contexts and prepares students for travel, study, and careers in international business, diplomacy, and beyond.

Spanish

Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and learning it opens doors to diverse cultures across Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Students build practical communication skills and explore the rich histories and traditions of Spanish-speaking communities.

Spanish is a valuable asset for a wide variety of careers including travel, education, health, and international business.

Te Reo Māori

Te Reo Māori is one of New Zealand’s official languages and a vital part of our national identity. At Takapuna Grammar, students learn to speak, listen, read, and write in te reo Māori while deepening their understanding of tikanga (customs), whakapapa (genealogy), and Māori worldviews.

This course fosters respect, cultural competence, and a strong sense of belonging - skills that enrich personal growth and community engagement.

Japanese

Japanese at Takapuna Grammar School offers students the chance to explore a language that blends ancient heritage with cutting-edge modernity. Students learn to read and write in hiragana, katakana, and kanji, while developing conversational skills and cultural awareness.

This course supports pathways into technology, design, tourism, and international relations, and fosters a deep appreciation for Japanese society.