Yaei High School, Kanagawa, Japan
From August 2-11, students of Bairnsdale Secondary College were delighted to welcome ten friendly visitors from Yaei High School, Kanagawa, Japan. They are always welcome and always very cheerful. The visit was once again one of the great events in the College school year.
While in Bairnsdale, the students experienced home stays, school life and formed very positive relationships with College students, their families and the wider Bairnsdale community.
The programme was very intense. Students had a Media class with Mr Capes and attended Year 8, 9 and 10/11 LOTE Japanese classes as well as their host buddies' classes. They gave performances and a presentation to Year 7 students. They at first performed a play in English based on the Japanese folk story, "Momotarou". They then did an AKB 48 dance which is from one of the most popular vocal groups with Japanese teenagers. Finally, they introduced their school using a DVD. Yaei High School is unique as the students are able to choose their courses before entering the school. The courses are Maths and Science, Sports Science, Art and Music and International Studies. The students highlighted differences, as well as educational opportunities and showed the students scenes from school life. It was an eye-opening experience and an interesting introduction to school life in a different country.
The Japanese students also visited Lucknow and Nungurner Primary Schools. At Nungurner, both the Japanese students and their host buddies experienced unique aspects of Australia: making butter, a friendly farm corner, Aussiegami and Aussie craft. At the end of the activities, barbecue, damper and "banana boat" were enjoyed by all the hungry campers. Special thanks were given to Mrs Brehaut for her organisation of the events.
Finally, on Friday evening a very emotional party to farewell the special Japanese guests was held at the College. This was a co-operative effort by all involved, including host families. Everyone who took part will remember this action-packed event.