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  • Formation and community engagement
25 Mar 2025

​St John Fisher College students on an immersion trip to Paris, France. ©Brisbane Catholic Education, St John Fisher College, Bracken Ridge (2024).​

​As Australia celebrates Harmony Week (18–24 March), St John Fisher College, Bracken Ridge is demonstrating that language education is more than just learning words.  

It’s about immersing students in diverse cultures, and broadening their worldviews, all while improving individual subject scores. 

A different way to learn French 

St John Fisher College Principal Britt Gurnett said the French Immersion Program, offered to selected Year 8 and 9 students, was “anything but traditional”. 

“Instead of just studying French as a standalone subject, students learn another subject—for example, Religious Education—entirely in French,” she said. 

“This method, known as Content and Language Integrated Learning, is internationally recognised for helping students acquire language skills naturally by using it in real-world academic contexts. 

“The program challenges students to think in another language, and as a result, students build fluency and confidence.” 

What the research tells us 

Britt adds that “research consistently supports the benefits of immersive language programs”. 

“Studies show that students in these programs develop stronger problem-solving abilities, greater adaptability, and improved study habits,” she said. 

“The results of this program speak for themselves. 

"Our students are excelling, with some achieving perfect scores of 100 in their individual subjects through this immersive learning approach. 

“Through participation in the program, language acquisition is accelerated allowing students to commence their Senior French studies in Year 10.  

“In Year 12 students can then undertake Extension French.” 

St John Fisher College is currently one of only four schools offering Year 12 French Extension in Queensland. 

Harmony Week (18 to 24 March) 

Beyond academic excellence, the French Immersion Program at St John Fisher College fosters cultural understanding and global awareness. 

“It’s not just about learning French—it’s about learning to navigate different cultures and ways of thinking,” Britt said. 

“In addition to mastering a second language, students gain valuable skills that promote inclusivity and global citizenship.  

“By equipping students with the ability to communicate in another language and appreciate different cultural perspectives, the program contributes to a more inclusive and globally minded generation.  

“In a world that’s more connected than ever, the ability to engage with different cultures is a skill that will serve our students for life.” 

Beyond the classroom 

In September 2024, the program’s commitment to cultural immersion reached new heights when 38 students and five staff members travelled to Paris for a 12-day language and cultural experience.  

“This experience reinforces that what our students are learning in the classroom has real-world value,” Britt said. 

The College also runs a French Immersion Choir, giving students another avenue to apply their language skills. 

For more information about St John Fisher College, Bracken Ridge click here.