Curriculum

Our Curriculum

The Daugava School offers Latvian language classes in nine year levels (Prep and Grades 1-8). Some of our classes are composite classes where both year levels are catered for as required. Each Latvian class has a dedicated language teacher and may also have an assistant. The school provides instruction in Latvian songs and singing, folk dancing, folklore and religion to all year levels.

All programs offered at the school are aligned to the Victorian Curriculum F-8.

The school operates each Saturday during the Victorian school term, from 10am to 2pm.

Alignment with Victorian Curriculum

The school’s curriculum is developed in accordance with the Victorian Curriculum F-10, Languages. The languages curriculum is thoughtfully organised through a series of themes and topics, each selected to provide progressive and cumulative learning experiences. This structured approach allows students to build upon their language skills and cultural understandings incrementally. By engaging with a variety of themes, students are exposed to diverse linguistic contexts and cultural nuances, fostering an appreciation of the Latvian language and culture. This methodical progression not only enhances language proficiency but also enriches students’ overall educational journey.

There are a wide range of themes and topics explored as part of the curriculum, each designed to enhance students’ language skills and cultural understanding. Some specific themes include:

• Personal Identity and Relationships: Exploring topics such as family, friends, and personal interests.

• Daily Life and Routines: Discussing everyday activities, school life and hobbies.

• Community and Neighbourhood: Learning about local communities, services, and places of interest.

• Cultural Celebrations and Traditions: Understanding various cultural festivals, holidays and traditional practices.

• Travel and Tourism: Covering topics related to travel experiences, famous landmarks and geographical features.

• Health and Well-being: Discussing sports and personal well-being.

Cultural celebrations are thoughtfully integrated into the curriculum to enhance students’ understanding and appreciation of diverse Latvian traditions and practices. This includes celebrations such as Latvian independence, the White Tablecloth festival and the midsummer solstice. Children explore the significance of these celebrations, the associated traditions and the language used during these events. In addition, students participate in singing, folk dancing, poem recitals, and traditional Latvian art/craft workshops and cooking. By integrating all of these into the curriculum, students not only learn the language but also gain a richer, more holistic understanding of the cultures associated with Latvia. This approach helps to build a more inclusive and culturally aware learning environment.

It is expected that at the end of schooling, students attain at a minimum the A1 language level, as defined by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). At this level, individuals can communicate in everyday situations using commonly used expressions and vocabulary. Specifically, someone at the A1 level can:

• Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and basic phrases aimed at satisfying concrete needs.

• Introduce themselves and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details such as where they live, people they know, and things they have.

• Can communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar and routine matters.

Assessment and Student Reporting

Reports will be written twice a year, outlining a student’s progress and how parents can support their child’s learning.

In addition:

• Parent-teacher interviews are held early in each year where teachers outline their program for the year and parents can raise any issues of concern about their child’s learning of Latvian; and

• The Principal and teachers are available by arrangement to discuss issues at other times during the year.

It is important that parents acknowledge that absences will have an impact on a student's learning and their progress.