The study of Japanese provides a means of communicating across cultures and promoting socio-cultural understanding and competence. Languages prepare students for meaningful, productive lives in a culturally and linguistically diverse society. Languages are important as a medium of interpersonal relationships, of thought and of learning about the world.

Given the strong cultural, economic and political ties with Japan, the study of Japanese is particularly important for Queensland.

Students of Japanese have the opportunity to develop language skills which will enhance their career prospects. Japan provides Australia with its largest overseas market, and opportunities in commerce, technology, law, health care, international affairs, tourism and education are available to students who have a knowledge and understanding of Japanese language and culture.

The Japanese faculty offers an opportunity for students to study a unique language that uses three different character-based scripts. Learning Japanese requires intellectual discipline and systematic study habits. Students develop cognitive flexibility and problem solving ability which can be applied not only when problems and solutions are clearly evident, but also when critical thinking and creative approaches are required.

Japanese is a compulsory subject for Year 8, Semester 1. It is then offered as an elective subject from Semester 2, Year 8 – Year 12. It is an Authority Subject in Years 11 and 12.

Students have many opportunities to interact with native Japanese people through home-stay programs and visits from university students. A bi-annual Japan tour is also scheduled.

Japanese teaching staff regularly interact and communicate with Japanese speakers both in Rockhampton and Japan to maintain their proficiency levels.