In Term 1, Mount Waverley Secondary College hosted eight students from Owa Senior High School in Osaka, Japan, as part of our wonderful annual exchange program. The visiting students experienced the daily life of our Australian students, including sightseeing in Melbourne and beyond, attending school and excursions, and immersing themselves in Australian family life.
In their first week, the Owa students took part in the Swimming Carnival and Year 10 Camp, where they had the chance to meet their peers and participate in college life. Their reflections on camp were overwhelmingly positive, marking a smooth and enjoyable start to their time in Australia and boosting their confidence in using English.
Over the course of their nine-week stay, the Ow students explored Melbourne, enjoying its beaches, parks, and exciting activities in the CBD — especially pleasant in the warm weather we had this year. Host families also took the students on trips to further destinations such as Phillip Island, the Great Ocean Road, and even Sydney, giving them a broader perspective of Australia. These trips also created some of the most memorable experiences for both the Owa exchange and MWSC host students.
Feedback from the Owa students was extremely positive. They thoroughly enjoyed experiencing a culture so different from their own and formed lasting friendships during their stay.
By Ananya J (Year 12)
