International Student Program

Farewell to Our Short-Term Study Students 

In August, we farewelled two Year 8 students who joined Northcote High School at different times for a one-month short-term study experience. 

It was wonderful to have them as part of our school community. During their time at Northcote High School, they participated in classes, experienced school life in Australia, and formed meaningful connections with students and staff. We are delighted to have received very positive feedback from both their teachers and parents. 

“Catherine's time at the school was genuinely wonderful – in fact, she enjoyed it so much

 that she didn't want to leave! Every day when she came home, she would eagerly tell me who she had played with and what fun things she did with her classmates. It was so heartwarming to see her so happy and engaged. On her second-to-last day, we even took one of her good friends out for a little get-together, and they had an absolute blast – lots of laughter and great memories. 

The students and teachers were all so kind and welcoming, and we truly couldn't have asked for a better experience. We have nothing but beautiful memories to look back on. 

We would absolutely love the chance to visit again in the future – Melbourne and Northcote High will always hold a special place in our hearts. And if Catherine ever has the opportunity, she would be thrilled to come back and say hello.”  

-Catherine’s mother. 

ISP students VS Staffs Basketball Match  

After several years, the ISP Basketball Match was finally back on 26th Aug. 

The game brought together Northcote High School teachers, ISP students, and visiting students from our sister school, Huaibei No. 1 High School. There was plenty of energy, and enthusiasm competition on the court. Our teachers and students were determined and gave the game their very best. 

This event was truly a team effort! A special thank you to Mr Rohan Hamit, who brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the event as MC. Also to our Sports Team and Ms Dridan for their support in organising the event. We would like to acknowledge the Northcote High School students who volunteered as referees and scorekeepers.  

We look forward to creating more opportunities to bring sporting events and activities back to the ISP program in the future. 

ISP Training  

On 2nd Sep our team attended the International Student Coordinator (ISC) Training provided by IEPD. The training provided important updates on policies and procedures, as well as a valuable opportunity to connect with colleagues from other schools, share experiences, and learn from one another.  

A key focus of the training was student wellbeing, with guest speakers sharing their knowledge and expertise on how schools can better identify and support students who may need additional assistance. 

Supporting international students who are living and studying away from home is an important part of our work. Students may experience particular challenges, including homesickness, adjusting to a new environment, and language barriers. At Northcote High School, we are fortunate to have dedicated support available for our students, including our teachers and our Mental Health Practitioner, Ms Harrison. Interpreter support is also available to help meet the needs of our international students and their families. 

The training also included important discussions about racism and how schools can continue to create inclusive and culturally safe environments. As a diverse and multicultural school with a large International Student Program, Northcote High School is committed to ensuring that all members of our community feel welcome, respected, and valued. Through events such as Harmony Week and Language Week, we continue to provide opportunities for students and staff to learn about, celebrate, and share the many cultures within our school community. 

Term 3 Dinner 

On 7 September, we had a fantastic evening celebrating our Term 3 birthdays, welcoming our new students, and enjoying the Mid-Autumn Festival together. 

Students enjoyed a delicious Vietnamese dinner and a fun evening with friends and staff. 

The highlight of the night was our Lucky Draw! Congratulations to our five lucky winners who took home some great prizes! There was plenty of excitement as we waited to see whose number would be called. 

A big thank you to our Student Captains for helping organise and run the whole evening