By NICOLE VALICEK
THE conversation between two cultures was all part of the experience when exchange students from Japan visited their sister school in Hobsons Bay.
Last week Bayside P-12 College welcomed 12 students and a delegation from its sister school Anjo Higashi Senior High School.
The Sister School agreement with Anjo Higashi Senior High School is in its 32nd year with this the 32nd delegation to visit Australian shores.
The school’s community and international program co-ordinator Tracy James said the program encouraged the students to forge international connections.
“This annual event which lasts for a very special week embraces our goal to develop global citizenship and cultural awareness in our students,” she said.
“It’s very important that our students connect globally with any part of the planet and respect and understand other cultures.”
“There is no substitute for language immersion … (it) connects kids as global citizens and learners.”
Hosting students and families from the Altona North, Williamstown and Paisley campus volunteer to share their homes with the visiting students.
Ms James said this gave them a unique insight into Australian daily lives.
Bayside P-12 College sends a delegation of staff and students to Japan every second year.
“Places in this program are highly valued by our students and applications are often received up to one year in advance.”
Hobsons Bay City Council Mayor, Angela Altair, addressed the Welcome Assembly last Wednesday.
Anjo City is also connected to Hobsons Bay as their Sister City, forging strong bonds between the local and college communities.
The Sister City agreement is in its 25th year.
Each year the Anjo visitors do a performance for the school at the welcoming ceremony.
This year they performed “Oen” which is performed at athletics meets.
