Geckos – German Community School Melbourne Incorporated

Overview

Geckos – German Community School Melbourne Incorporated is a nonprofit organization based in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. It operates as a community language school focused on teaching the German language and immersing students in the cultures of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

Purpose and Activities

The primary purpose of Geckos is to provide a comprehensive German education to students of all backgrounds. The school offers classes for children from preschool age through adulthood, including both native speakers and those for whom German is a second language. The curriculum is designed based on current research in language learning, ensuring effective and engaging instruction.

Programs

• Kindergarten Program: This is designed for 3- and 4-year-olds, emphasizing immersion in German to provide an early start in language acquisition.
• School-Aged Programs: These include two streams: one for native German speakers and another for children learning German as a second language. Both streams are tailored to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Adult Classes: Geckos offers beginner and intermediate classes for adults, catering to parents, grandparents, and the broader community interested in learning German.

Structure and Governance

Geckos is a not-for-profit organization, operating outside the regular school system. It is managed by a board that oversees its operations and ensures that the school remains true to its mission.

Values and Community Engagement

The school values inclusion and diversity, welcoming students from all backgrounds regardless of their prior exposure to the German language. It fosters a strong community spirit through additional activities planned according to the interests and needs of the students and their families. This approach helps create a supportive environment where language learning is both enjoyable and culturally enriching.

[1] https://www.geckos.org.au [2] https://www.geckos.org.au/about [3] https://www.instagram.com/geckos_german_community_school/ [4] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0c75b78b-3aaf-e811-a95e-000d3ad24c60 [5] http://geckos-melbourne.weebly.com