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Learning Through Two Languages....
Established in 1984, the English-Macedonian Bilingual Curriculum Program at Lalor North Primary School is one of the longest-running bilingual programs in Victoria. It has earned national and international recognition for its exceptional academic outcomes, particularly in the development of bilingualism and bi-literacy across all year levels. We are deeply proud of this unique and thriving program, which continues to flourish thanks to the unwavering support of our families and global Macedonian community.
This academically rigorous program is offered from Prep to Year 6 and is one of the most comprehensive content-based bilingual education models in the state. Our Macedonian language teachers are native speakers and highly qualified professionals, bringing linguistic expertise and cultural authenticity to the classroom. The program is strongly supported by the local community and plays a vital role in fostering multicultural identity, respect, and engagement, both within our school and beyond.
A Rich Bilingual Experience from Prep to Year 6
Offered from Prep to Year 6, the Macedonian Bilingual Program at Lalor North Primary School provides students with a rich, content-based bilingual education that supports the development of full bilingualism and bi-literacy. As one of the most extensive and well-established bilingual programs in Victoria, it offers a unique and academically rigorous pathway for students to become confident and capable users of both English and Macedonian.
The program follows the Victorian Curriculum 2.0, ensuring all students have access to a high-quality education. In line with our 50/50 bilingual model, 50% of the curriculum is delivered in Macedonian, equating to approximately 9 to 12 hours per week of Macedonian language instruction. This dual-language model allows students to learn the language and learn through the language in a natural, immersive environment that enhances both cognitive and academic development. Specialist subjects, such as Physical Education, STEAM, and Visual Art, are delivered in English by expert specialist teachers.
Our 40th Anniversary Concert
In 2024 we celebrated 40 years of the Macedonian Bilingual Program. To honour this achievement, we performed a special Macedonian Bilingual Concert showcasing the rich language, culture, and heritage that we nurtured over the past four decades.
The concert featured vibrant performances by our students, including traditional dances, songs, and dramatic presentations in both Macedonian and English. It was a joyful celebration of identity, community, and the generations of students who have been part of this proud tradition.
Bilingual Education Support Staff...
Bilingual Education Support Staff support the program and prepare the materials used in the classrooms by translating English resources and/or modifying Macedonian texts. The role of the Bilingual Education Support Staff includes listening to and supporting students to read on a daily basis. As a result, we have a very successful Home Reading Program, providing the students in the Early Years with Macedonian books to take home.
The Macedonian Bilingual Curriculum Program has a well-resourced and continuously updated Macedonian library which gives the opportunity to students from all year levels to borrow books for home reading.
Collaborative Teaching in the Macedonian Bilingual Program
Each class in the Macedonian Bilingual Program is allocated two teachers; one delivering instruction in English and the other in Macedonian. These educators work in close collaboration to plan and deliver a rich, integrated curriculum that aligns with all areas of the Victorian Curriculum.
Our approach fosters deep connections between learning areas and encourages students to explore concepts through both languages, enhancing their critical thinking, creativity, and curiosity. Learning is student-centred, with opportunities for inquiry, collaboration, and self-directed exploration, allowing students to take greater ownership of their learning journey.
Each class follows a carefully structured weekly timetable, ensuring an equitable balance between English and Macedonian instruction. While only one teacher is in the classroom at a time, both work as a cohesive team to maintain continuity, consistency, and depth in learning across both languages.
This dual-teacher model not only supports bilingualism and bi-literacy, but also provides a diverse and dynamic classroom environment where students are immersed in a truly global education.
Celebrating Cultural Identity and Special Events
The Macedonian Bilingual Curriculum Program at Lalor North Primary School offers students rich opportunities to develop a deep understanding and appreciation of both Australian and Macedonian cultures. The program actively promotes cultural awareness, mutual respect, and a strong sense of identity and belonging within a multicultural context.
Students engage in a wide range of cultural experiences that foster connection to Macedonian heritage. These include celebrating traditional events such as Easter (with the symbolic egg cracking), participating in cooking activities linked to significant cultural days, and recognising and commemorating important Macedonian national celebrations. These experiences enhance students’ understanding of cultural traditions while reinforcing the use of language in meaningful, real-world contexts.
A highlight of the year is the Annual Bilingual Concert, where students proudly perform in both English and Macedonian. This event showcases their learning across a variety of forms, including public speaking, singing, dancing, recitation, drama, and storytelling, celebrating bilingual proficiency and confidence.
The program also maintains strong connections with the wider Macedonian community. Students regularly participate in Christmas carol performances and concerts for local senior citizens, fostering intergenerational bonds and a sense of community service. Additionally, students in the Macedonian Bilingual Program take part in whole-school events, ensuring they are actively involved in the broader school community while enriching their educational journey through language and culture.
Through these experiences, students are empowered to become culturally aware, confident communicators who value and celebrate diversity.
