A long-running school exchange program exposes students to different cultures, religions and geographic backgrounds and provides opportunities for participants to develop a greater understanding of cultural diversity.
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Hastings Secondary College Japanese teacher Nicole Wells also says the programs allow the interaction between people and cultures who are different to ourselves and gives students the opportunity to participate in new and unique experiences.
“Students develop their communication skills, while also developing relationships with others, gaining knowledge, skills and personal growth as a result,” Ms Wells said.
"Hosting an international student provides a unique experience of learning, fun, laughs and lifelong memories."
During the most recent visit, 22 Japanese students from Higashi Senior High School, Handa and Okadama Senior High School, Sapporo recently called Hastings Secondary College and the Port Macquarie-Hastings area home.
Following on from the successful Handa visit at Westport Campus, Port Macquarie Campus continued the hospitality with Sister School Okadama Senior High School, Sapporo.
Now in its 23rd year, Port Macquarie Campus’ Sister School Goodwill Tour has seen more than 200 Japanese students be hosted by campus families.
Hastings Secondary College, year 8 student Cameron Elliott said exchange student Renji was very polite and had a keen sense of humour.
“He spoke in English and Japanese and at times it was challenging to communicate,” Cameron said.
“We shared pictures and we would share the day and talk about what we did whilst having dinner. He liked Australian food, and told us that not all Japanese like sushi. They also have similar dinners to ours. Renji liked movies, music and You Tube too.”
Fellow student Jade Blake said she learnt that teenagers are teenagers no matter what culture.
“Mizuki had similar interests, mannerisms and communications to me,” Jade said.
“Mizuki and our family communicated by speaking English, using Google translate and if we had any mistranslations we would refer to my Japanese textbook.”
Year 9’s Sarah Long said exchange student Yuki wanted to communicate in English so she could practice.
“We spoke mostly in English, speaking slowly if necessary, and we used lots of body language. Communication became easier throughout the stay,” Sarah said.
“We talked about her favourite foods, her music idols, movies and what subjects she did at school. Compared to Australian teenagers we are quite similar. We chat, hang out with friends, joke and take pictures. They hug, talk about crushes, and try and to make each other laugh.
“I learned that in one week you can make many friends and miss all of them when they leave.”
