HORSHAM’S St Brigid’s College students said goodbye to the 15 Japanese students who visited the city for three weeks from Matsudo International High School.
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At a farewell assembly the Japanese students shared their favourite memories, performed a traditional dance and sung the Australian national anthem. The students were also presented with certificates.
College teacher Lynley MacDonald said hosting the students was a privilege.
“Each student had a go at everything we had organised and they brought with them so much enthusiasm,” she said.
Ms MacDonald said students visited the Grampians, Naracoorte, Mt Arapiles, Roses Gap and other tourist attractions during their stay. She said the college’s year 9 students taught them how to play football.
“Although it is sad to see them leave this is just the start of new lifelong friendships,” she said. Japanese student Natsumi Matsumoto said she had many experiences in Horsham, but her favourite was going to the Halls Gap Zoo.
Student Saki Yamawaki said her favourite memory was playing football.
“I played football for the first time and it was hard, but the kind students taught me well,” she said. “I also enjoyed joining the Japanese classes and teaching everyone origami and talking to them.”
Matsudo International High School English teacher Saki Takeuchi said the program had been a wonderful experience.
“At first the students were nervous and worried, but thanks to the kind support they’ve had a wonderful time in Horsham,” she said.
College languages co-ordinator Jeni Allen said 19 Horsham students would travel to Japan during the term three holidays.
“An indicator of how integral our languages program is becoming is the enthusiasm and interest shown in the return trips to Japan by members of our community,” she said.
While in Japan, Ms Allen said the students would spend time at Matsudo International High School renewing friendships and participating in school life in a real Japanese classroom.
The Japanese student left Horsham on Friday.