The Australian Croatian Community Service is pleased to announce the commencement of Croatian language classes for the Spring term, beginning Monday, September 15th.
Whether you’re looking to connect with your Croatian heritage, planning to travel to Croatia, or simply interested in learning a new language, these classes offer a comprehensive introduction to Croatian language and culture.
The flexible online format makes it convenient to participate, while the option for in-person classes provides an alternative for those who prefer face-to-face learning, depending on interest levels.
Executive Assistant Danijela Dujmić shared insights into past experiences with Croatian language courses organised by Australian Croatian Community Services.
Attendance and Demographics
How many students typically attend each term? – We typically have 4 to 5 classes per term, with total student numbers ranging from 40 to 55 per term.
What is the average age range of students? – While our students span a wide range of ages, the highest level of interest typically comes from those in the 21-30 age bracket.
What percentage of students are of Croatian heritage versus non-Croatian learners? – Approximately 82% of our students are of Croatian heritage, while the remaining 18% are non-Croatian learners, including individuals with partners or spouses of Croatian background who are interested in the language and culture.
Student Background and Motivation
What are the most common reasons people give for wanting to learn Croatian? – The most common reasons people give for wanting to learn Croatian include a desire to communicate with relatives and friends while travelling abroad, particularly to Croatia. Many students also express a strong interest in using the language for everyday interactions during their travels, such as navigating dining, socialising and getting about whilst in Croatia. Additionally, a significant number of learners are motivated to pass the language on to their children, helping to preserve cultural and linguistic heritage across generations.
How many students are complete beginners versus those with some prior exposure to the language? – Approximately 89% of our Beginner-Level students have had some prior exposure to the language – often through family, community or cultural ties – and are seeking to deepen their understanding and connection with it. This aligns closely with the fact that many of our students have Croatian heritage or a partner with Croatian heritage. The remaining 11% are complete newcomers with no prior experience, typically from non-Croatian backgrounds, who are starting their language learning journey from the very beginning.
Do you have students who are learning Croatian for business, travel, or academic purposes? – Absolutely, we do have some students who are learning Croatian with us for business or academic purposes. The Croatian government currently offers significant financial incentives to support Croatians living abroad in returning to live, work or study in Croatia. This aligns with the interests of some learners, particularly those who work remotely and are considering business opportunities or study pathways in Croatia.
What percentage of students are learning to connect with family heritage? – It is quite a high number of our students are learning Croatian to connect with their Croatian ancestry and are eager to engage with the language and culture more deeply.
Student Background and Motivation
What is the typical retention rate from term to term? – Some students choose to take a term off from time to time due to travel or scheduling commitments, with many returning to continue their studies when circumstances allow, therefore our typical retention rate is strong, with up to 80% of students re-enrolling.
How many students progress to advanced levels? – Approximately 60% of our students continue beyond the Intermediate levels to reach advanced stages of language learning.
What teaching methods have been most effective in previous classes? – The most effective teaching methods across our classes are those that combine practical, conversational use of the language with structured grammar and vocabulary instruction. Interactive activities such as role-plays, group discussions and real-life scenarios have helped students build confidence and fluency. Flexibility in delivery, especially through online platforms, has allowed for personalised learning and greater accessibility, which has contributed to overall student success.
Have you noticed differences in learning outcomes between online and in-person formats? – We haven’t held in-person classes for some time (although if we received enough interest, we would), as the convenience of online learning continues to suit many of our students, particularly given the busy nature of modern life and the fact that a significant portion of our learners are based all throughout Victoria, NSW and other states.
While learning outcomes have remained strong in the online format, we do recognise the value of personal connection. Many students form meaningful relationships with their peers and tutors throughout the term, these bonds are often strengthened at in-person gatherings, such as our end-of-year award ceremony held at the Croatian Consulate in Melbourne, where students come together to reconnect and celebrate their progress.
Course Details
Format: Online classes held one evening per week
Duration: 14 weeks
Class Length: 2 hours per session
Location: Online (with in-person classes available subject to interest received)
Class Levels
Beginner I
Beginner II
Intermediate I
Intermediate II, and Advanced Level.
Enrolment Fees
- Standard Enrolment: $450
- Group Enrolments (per person): $420
- Family Enrolments (per person): $420
- Returning Students: $420
How to Enrol
For further information and to secure your place in the Spring term Croatian classes, please contact:
Daniela
Email: danielad@accs.asn.au
Website: www.accs.asn.au
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn one of Europe’s most beautiful languages from the comfort of your home. Enrolments are now open for the Spring term starting September 15th.
