Fun language program for preschool children

Preschools can apply to run the Morrison Government’s play-based language instruction program to start teaching young Australians a foreign language. 

The Morrison Government’s $27.5 million Early Learning Languages Australia (ELLA) program has already helped educate 110,000 children across more than 3,500 preschools about foreign languages. 

ELLA is a digital, play-based program that introduces young Australians to languages other than English. It can help teach 13 languages: Arabic, Mandarin, French, German, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Modern Greek, Spanish, Turkish and Vietnamese. 

Minister for Education Dan Tehan said learning a second language would give students an educational advantage and broaden their horizons. 

“ELLA supports children to explore other languages and cultures, inspiring them to continue learning in years to come,” Mr Tehan said. 

“The program helps grow students’ social, thinking, digital and literacy skills, and can also improve memory and concentration. Educators don’t need any language training to use it, the program provides extensive support material, offline games, learning resources, and a responsive helpdesk. 

“Our Government is helping prepare students for the future economy where having a second language will be an enormous benefit. 

“I encourage preschools to apply to run this successful program – spaces are limited.” 

ELLA was developed with language specialists, early childhood professionals and technology experts. 

The Morrison Government has already provided $11.8 million to expand ELLA into 300 schools for grades Foundation to Year 2. 

Visit www.ella.edu.au for more information, including eligibility criteria, device requirements and how to apply.