Shonan Shirayuri Gakuen Student Visit

Sayonara, Australia!

The visit of students from Shonan Shirayuri Gakuen came to an end on Monday, culminating in a presentation ceremony and farewell party. Our Japanese visitors led their hosts in some Japanese children’s games and entertained them with a song thanking them for their hospitality and help. It was a most enjoyable evening, even though some of the girls did not yet seem ready to go home.

During their stay the ten girls participated in communication activities and attended mainstream classes with their Nagle buddies. The girls also had interactive lessons with all our Japanese classes. While playing language games, Nagle girls learned a lot about what it’s like to be a Japanese teenager and attend school in Japan.

Our visitors also taught students from Years 8 and 9 some origami and calligraphy, bringing the Japanese language to life for our girls. Both groups of students benefited from the experience as they worked together, learning more than language skills.

The girls also went on excursions to the Blue Mountains, Featherdale Wildlife Park and the Muru Mittigar Aboriginal Centre. Needless to say, koalas and kangaroos were a big hit with our visitors.

Of course the visit would not be a success without the generosity of the Nagle families who agree to host the students. It is a significant commitment and I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge our hosts’ kindness and support of this annual visit.