KSKK Japanese Student Visit
After 3 years of no visits, this July/August we welcomed our third visit from a Japanese group. Ten students and their leader (affectionately known as Cherry sensei) were hosted by Fairhills for two weeks.
Cherry sensei has had a long association with Fairhills, and she was so happy to introduce her students to what we have to offer, and Australian life. Likewise, our students enjoyed trying out their Japanese, and caring for their host or buddy students. They did an awesome job!
Along the way, the group participated in a number of excursions. The first was to Mornington Peninsula. Despite it being cold, they indulged in the Aussie tradition of fish and chips on the beach, and the associated seagull invasion.
We took advantage of a student free day on Curriculum Day to all go to Queen Victoria Market and the city. Hot jam donuts were a must for everyone, and Hosier Lane provided some awesome photo opportunities.
A cultural demonstration and activity day at Wattleview Primary School, one of our feeder schools was a highlight for the students there. They learnt how to do origami, calligraphy, and play traditional Japanese games.
We all had the honour of attending a Mayoral Reception. The students met the Mayor of Knox, and gave speeches in English. They even demonstrated their musical skills.
The last day ‘at school’ was spent visiting Phillip Island. On the way we saw a mob of kangaroos, and even the accompanying Aussies took lots of photos. The Koala Sanctuary didn’t disappoint, with lots of koala sightings. Then it was more fish and chips at San Remo, before the Penguin Parade.
We would like to thank the host families and school buddies who cared for our visitors so well. Also thank you to Ruth Probin our skilled EAL teacher for helping the students prepare their speeches for the Mayoral Reception, and as always Edmund Chow our International Student Coordinator for helping out in so many ways.
In our 50th Anniversary year we also celebrate our long standing association with KSKK, and look forward to a future where once again our students can travel to Japan and experience its wonderful culture and language.
Jessica Winstone
Integrated Learning Area Coordinator – Languages
