Japanese Exchange: Sanda Day Visit
On Friday 2 August our College was privileged to host 36 students from Sanda Shounkan Senior High School for a one-day program of cultural exchange. Sanda students were paired one-on-one with a JFSC buddy allowing Sanda students to spend the day experiencing life in an Australian high school.
The day commenced with a heartfelt welcome in Japanese by two Year 12 JFSC students. Sanda students then returned this welcome by treating their JFSC buddies to an interesting and informative presentation about various aspects of their school life and hometown in English. Following the presentations students were able to relax and bond over a competitive game of Kahoot which featured questions about Japan and Australia in both languages. The morning's events culminated in students sharing a morning tea of canteen prepared "Koala Bento" boxes which featured Australian cuisine items such as party pies, Tim-Tams, ANZAC Biscuits and Lamingtons.
From period 3 onwards Sanda students joined their buddies in their classes, experiencing a day in an Australian high school. Classes included the core subjects of English, Mathematics, Science and HASS as well as Physical Education (Athletics or an AFL Lesson), Art, Music, Home Economics (Cooking and Textiles), Product Design, Computing, Dance and of course Japanese. During break times Sanda students were able to mix with their buddy's friendship groups, building further friendships in Australia.
It is always wonderful to witness the positive exchange between our cultures; the caring nature of the JFSC staff and students, and the friendships made during this short time. Visiting staff and students have expressed their heartfelt appreciation to the College and their desire to continue these annual visits. Later this year a group of JFSC students will be visiting Sanda as a significant component of the Japan tour. We can't wait!
