MELBOURNE - That’s the vision shared by Italian teachers Anthony Vescio and Grace Latina, the latter of whom is also the Pedagogic Curriculum Leader for Languages and the International Exchange Coordinator. Along with a team of passionate colleagues, they’re transforming the way students approach language learning.
The traditional focus on grammar and vocabulary has given way to a more dynamic and engaging method; one that intertwines language with culture, history and the joy of discovery.
Starting in Year 8, students can now choose between two “vertical” learning modules: flexible, creative and innovative pathways designed to make Italian come alive: La dolce vita and Facciamo festa.
The first explores Italian culture and history, while the second immerses students in folk traditions, from Carnevale to the Palio di Siena, and from regional cuisine to community celebrations.
“When we started, we only had 14 students,” recalls Latina. “Now, the classes have doubled. Year 7 students saw what we were doing, heard about it and wanted to join.”
This success stems from an approach where language is no longer seen merely as a school discipline, but as a bridge between worlds. One highlight was a visit to the Veneto Club, where students made gnocchi, played bocce and shared lunch with members of the local Italian community.
“In that setting, students put their phones away, laughed and worked together. Even the shy ones opened up and talked non-stop. It was genuine human connection,” Vescio observed.
For the teachers, such experiences are essential to give real meaning to language learning, which can’t be confined to grammar drills.
“We can’t teach language without culture,” says Vescio. “Teenagers want to understand Italy through what makes it unique: its history, people and way of life.”
Students also gain perspective through exchange programs with schools in Trento and Verona. Last term, three students from Trento spent six weeks in Melbourne, offering Australian students the chance to compare lifestyles and discover similarities and contrasts.
“They realised how alike they are. They watch the same shows and listen to the same music, but they also saw key differences: in Italy, people go out into the piazzas, they eat dinner together as a family. That reflection was invaluable,” the teachers noted.
Despite the enthusiasm, post-pandemic travel remains a challenge.
“The main issue is cost,” admitted Vescio, “but we’re working to make a new exchange possible in the coming years”.
The Italian department consists of five teachers and two assistants for around 1700 students, with the goal of offering a well-rounded pathway through conversation, culture, clubs and excursions, all geared toward preparing for VCE exams.
“We want students to feel part of a community,” says Latina. “It’s about building social connections and keeping the language and culture alive, especially since most of them don’t speak Italian at home.
“Classes are an opportunity to bridge the past and present.”
“When I was a child, Italy was like a shop window full of sweets,” Vescio adds with emotion.
“I could see it, but not touch it.”
Now, thanks to projects like these, even students without Italian roots are learning to love the language and feel at home in a culture that’s becoming part of their world.
