allows hearing students to see being hard of hearing, in a positive light, where Auslan is a valuable tool for communicating with friends, family members and the community.

“Auslan increases opportunities for the integration of knowledge in other areas using information and communication technologies, it provides access to alternative ways of thinking and methods of communication, and it increases the understanding of inclusivity, diversity, social justice, community membership, and cultural identity.

“Finally, having this program available in our school will open career opportunities as interpreters, teachers, notetakers, and carers for young Auslan users.”

Students are already reaping the benefits and had many positive things to say about their experiences.

Flynn, Year 3 said, “I taught one of my brother’s friends how to sign his name. Also, when it gets loud at my house, I can use Auslan to sign with my mum and brother (my dad doesn’t really know it).”

“I learned how to sign for chocolate and the letter H!” said Maya, pre-primary.

Leo, Year 4 said, “I like when we get to play games and sign. For example, Battleships and signing how to construct LEGO.”

Maya, added, “One time, when I was at Adventure World, I saw some people signing and my family and I went up to them and I signed chocolate to them. They signed lollypop back to me.”

Hannah, Year 3 said, “I teach my family Auslan and they sometimes sign back to me before I go to school. One time I was at the park with my dad, and there were some people using Auslan. One person was deaf, and the other was teaching him. I went up to them and signed “Hi, my name is Hannah.” They signed back to me their names and nice to meet me. They were very happy I could sign to them.

“Another highlight was the whole school did the 12 Days of Christmas using Auslan at last year’s Christmas Concert.”

Leo, Year 4 added he hopes the school will have sign boards around the vicinity displaying words, so that everyone who visits Orana will be able to pick up a word or two.

Principal Dee Johnston said,

“Students are seamlessly using Auslan in everyday situations, from basic requests (like signing for restroom access) to more profound applications (such as signing the school prayer during assemblies, liturgies, and Mass). The benefits of Auslan extend beyond communication—it fosters inclusivity, empathy, and a shared learning experience for all.

“Additionally, Auslan has been utilised by students when escalated, as an alternative way to communicate, if speaking becomes too difficult,” Assistant Principal Kathryn Alp said.

“Prospective parents have communicated a positive regard to Auslan being offered as a specialised program, adding that Auslan is one of the reasons for their enrolment decisions. We hope to welcome more students whose first language is Auslan.”

“The parish-school connection has been strengthened using Auslan. We have incorporated signing into our Liturgy, allowing for inclusive participation. Students now sign the school prayer at our community masses held at Saints John and Paul Parish. The parish council are now prompting discussions on further incorporation of Auslan into their liturgical services,” said Assistant Principal Andy Di Carlantonio.

Auslan teacher Britney Lilly said she feels blessed to be able to share her experiences and knowledge on Auslan with her students.

“The journey I have embarked on in bringing light to my family’s experience with hearing loss. By advocating for my own children and demonstrating to our students that a disability does not define a person, I aim to foster a more inclusive and understanding environment for all. Working closely with colleagues to incorporate Auslan throughout the curriculum. I have the support of a Deaf mentor: this has provided me with invaluable insights and a direct connection to the deaf community, guiding us in following Deaf protocols and embracing Deaf culture within our school.

“Orana’s exploration with Auslan, has received great enthusiasm from our students. I have witnessed them not only developing proficiency in Auslan but also growing into respectful and inclusive communicators. Simple gestures like gaining someone’s attention before initiating a conversation have become second nature to them, reflecting a deep respect for individual and cultural protocols.”

“Through Auslan, students who may have faced challenges in traditional academic settings now have a platform to express their ideas and personal identities confidently, free from the constraints of reading, writing, or holding a pencil. This journey has not only empowered our students but has also created a sense of belonging and understanding within our classroom community, bridging the gap between hearing and deaf/hard of hearing individuals.”