Greek Ethnic Schools in a Globalising Context

Abstract

The entire presence and history of Greek educational centres in Australia continues a long tradition throughout the Greek diaspora. Although the socio-historical context was different in Australia from places such as Alexandria and in Europe, the strong linguistic and cultural awareness of Greeks led to the formation and maintenance of an enormous network of part-time schools throughout Australia. Since 1896, when the first Greek class was established by the Greek Orthodox Community in Sydney, these schools have been the vehicles through which the Greek language (together with associated cultural and religious traditions) has been maintained as a social symbol and a means of communication.