Languages News
Au Revoir to our French Exchange Group from Notre Dame de Sion, Marseille
Our French Exchange group from Notre Dame de Sion have completed their two week exchange to John XXIII College. It has been an eventful two weeks for them exploring the museums and art galleries of Perth, Fremantle and Rottnest Island.
Here is an excerpt from a reflection from one of the exchange students from France, Laura Contadini:
"
I really want to thank my host family for having me and welcoming me. This trip is full of good memories and I had new experiences like going to Rottnest Island or even going to Caversham and met new animals like kangaroos and wombats. Some of us even touched snakes. We had a lot of good times here with a great atmosphere between every student. We would like to thank all the teachers here in Australia and Mme Kesser and, of course, the Principal for planning this trip. We also want to thank the host families for having us."
Here are some excerpts from a reflection from one of our own Year 11 students, Zoe Longley, who has participated in the Study Tour to France and also hosted Laura Agostini.
"I was lucky enough to be part of the Study Tour to France last year, to travel to Marseille, Montpellier and Paris. I have studied French throughout high school and am now hosting an exchange student in my home for the third year. It's a great way to learn the language and experience the culture.
I lived with a new family in Marseille, with a girl my age called Laura Agostini. This was slightly more scary, as I had no idea what to expect, but they were lovely and I experienced another family and place. Laura's family is Jewish and so I got the extra experience of living in a home that's practising a different religion. Now, Laura has come to stay with me in my home. I have been very excited to share with her all the aspects of my life like the parts of her life that she shared with me.
This reciprocal exchange is so wonderful for building relationships, and gives you the opportunity to compare your life. It gives you a new outlook and a fresh perspective on French culture.
I have had a ton of fun, learnt far more than it is possible to learn in a classroom, improved my speaking skills in French and made lifelong friends with whom I still keep in contact with. I am very grateful for this exchange"
A big thank you to all the members of our community who help to make this international exchange possible. A special and very heartfelt thank you to our wonderful host families for their generosity. In addition a big thank you to the teachers, support staff, maintenance and administration of our College who contribute precious time and energy to ensure our visitors are welcome, safe and happy in our community. Merci beaucoup to Mme Desa Lucas for Coordinating the Notre Dame de Sion Exchange in 2016.
We wish our visitors a safe trip back to Marseille. Bon voyage.
Shane Glass - Head of Learning (Languages)
