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In 1982, Ahmad Zreika recognized an educational void for children from
his community to study Arabic language. Together with friends and members
of the community, he set out to provide an effective, meaningful academic
experience for these children. The Lebanese Arabic School opened its
door as non profit organisation at Willoughby Girl High School and accepted
its first batch of students. 50 children enrolled in the first year
and they were divided into 2 classes.
In the second year of operation, despite the challenging times, it was
evident that through the program, students were making real progress
in their quest to study the language. Parents, friends and local community
leaders started to fully embraced the program. 220 children enrolled
and were divided into 5 classes. A second school at Punchbowl High School
was leased to accommodate additional 160 students.
Then in 1991, another school was opened at Auburn West Public School
with 25 students in its first year. The growth of the school has been
impressive and in second year of operation in Auburn West Public School,
student population grew to 300.
Since 1982, on average the student number has grown about 9% every year
and at present there are more than 700 students housed at 2 locations;
namely the Punchbowl High School and Auburn West Public School. The
school has 32 teachers and 4 coodinators.
The school has been recognised by the NSW Education Department as community
language school and in 2002 it was awarded with Minister Award for its
contribution to the community. 3 students were highly commended for
excellent results.
The school is always trying to lift its standard of teaching. Since
2002, the school has organised with Australian Catholic University on
a yearly basis to conduct courses to enhance the level of teaching of
the language by its teachers.
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The Lebanese Arabic School Language Links
Art
of Arabic Calligraphy
Website discusses the Arabic language, the origins and development of
Arabic script, and the Kufic and Cursive styles.
MidEastWeb
GateWay
News, Views, Cultural Dialogue, Education and Reference relating to
the Middle East. Website is in Arabic, English and Hebrew languages
BBC
Arabic News
Read and listen to latest news in Arabic and English
Arabic
MSN
Microsoft Network (MSN) online portal in Arabic language
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