17/04/2026
We love finding out about initiatives happening in Queensland schools such as this one where all students are learning Auslan as their second language.
Itโs also fantastic to read about the teacher being both bilingual AND bicultural because as they say, kids can't be what they can't see ๐
Here's hoping it builds more inclusive and connected communities ๐ช๐
This school community is learning sign language together.๐ง
At Toowong State School, Auslan (Australian Sign Language) connects students, staff and families โ including 53 Deaf students.
Itโs one of many ways our state schools are creating inclusive and engaging learning environment.
Cameron Miller, one of Queenslandโs first Bilingual-Bicultural (Bi-Bi) teachers, has helped lead this approach.
Bi-Bi education uses both Auslan and English as the foundation for communication.
'Itโs not simply a matter of โjust signingโ, itโs about learning two languages and cultures,โ Mr Miller explains.
'Our teaching must be visual, hands on, engaging and authentic.โ
Across Queensland, around 300 Deaf and Hard of Hearing students use Auslan from Prep to Year 12 across 108 state schools.
For Cameron, itโs also about who students see in front of them.
โTeaching is incredibly rewarding. You can make a powerful difference both for Deaf students who see themselves in you, and for hearing students who learn from your example.โ
Thanks to all our staff and students who bring Auslan to life every day. ๐