HOSTING GROUP VISITS
INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS PROGRAMS
Being involved in cultural exchange provides a wonderful opportunity for people of all ages to experience another culture and broaden their outlook on life. Programs that assist in forming international relationships should be valued and nurtured.
| DURATION: |
Generally 1-2 weeks |
| DATES: |
Usually during Japanese school holidays – end July/August or March |
| AGES: |
13 – 17 years old (however the students can mix with any grade level) |
| NO. OF VISITORS: |
Numbers vary depending on the group but are usually between 10-20 students. |
OBJECTIVES
- To enhance the cultural awareness of the Japanese visitors through interaction with Australian students ... and Australian cultural awareness of Japan and Japanese people.
- To inspire the study of languages and provide opportunities for communication.
- The creation of intercultural bonds of friendship between all participants in the exchange.
ROLE OF SHOJI AUSTRALIA
Shoji Australia organises all aspects of the visit with the group, the hosting school and families.
- An experienced coordinator liaises with the school to prepare for and monitor the visit.
- Professional bilingual staff supports the program throughout the stay and offer 24 hour assistance to students and host families. Shoji Australia takes responsibility and duty of care for all visiting students.
- A trained teacher attends each day to provide specialised ESL lessons for the visiting students and supervise the students in the school.
- Host families are found through advertising in the school and then Shoji Australia takes responsibility for coordination of all correspondence and arrangements with families. Schools are kept informed of progress.
THE HOST SCHOOL
Shoji Australia programs are professionally organised and supported to foster positive interaction yet impose minimally on the school. Australian students who are studying Japanese get inspired, can increase their cultural knowledge and realise their language learning through social activities and interactive classes. Other learning areas can become involved through presentations by Japanese students and shared classes highlighting aspects of Australian or Japanese culture. Visits can also provide impetus for lessons about society, history, economy, cultural heritage, and values. The school is also offered a substantial donation per student per week, which makes hosting a fundraising opportunity. All students benefit by the school fostering international cultural awareness and friendship.
Host schools are asked to:
- Provide a classroom/teaching area for morning English classes.
- Allow students to participate in regular classes with Australian students for some afternoons (e.g. regular classes or special classes in physical education, art, language, cooking etc).
- Advertise within the school for families to host the Japanese students.
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