About the Lebanese Arabic School

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 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.