Early Learning Languages Australia Program (ELLA) is a fun, digital, play-based language learning program for preschool children. It was developed as part of an Australian Government initiative to encourage more students to study a language. Nine languages were available in 2018: Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Hindi, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Modern Greek and Spanish.
ELLA is delivered through a series of play-based apps on tablet devices, supported by a helpdesk, workshops and a website with support materials and reporting. Educators do not need to have previous knowledge of the language or experience in delivering a language program. ELLA employs a co-learning approach; it inspires children and educators by driving a genuine interest in a new language and culture.
Since 2014, the Australian Government has invested over $28.7 million dollars in the Early Learning Languages Australia now covers 4,962 preschool services across Australia. (Note: estimate average value of grant)
