Opening a door to the world 

Student exchange at Kilvington

Ornella Sénèque, Head of Global Connections

Our Global Connections Program brings language learning and intercultural understanding to life by connecting students with peers from France, Japan, and China. Through authentic language exchanges and engaging cultural experiences, students develop the confidence to communicate across cultures, build meaningful international friendships, and see their learning from a new perspective. From sharing everyday life and discovering different school experiences to exploring traditions, food, music and celebrations, students experience language as something real, relevant, and shared.

The Kilvington community was lucky enough to recently welcome two groups of exchange students from Japan and China. For our visiting students the exchange offered a chance to experience everyday life at Kilvington and in Melbourne, while our students had the opportunity to step outside their own routines and make connections across cultures. For Ami Hirai, from Hiroshima Jogakuin Junior High School, the experience was challenging but ultimately resulted in strong friendships.

Japan

"Kilvington was very different from our school in every way, including the way classes are taught and the classroom atmosphere. It was a valuable and exciting experience. If we had any trouble, the students around us kindly helped us by explaining and guiding us on their laptops. Their kindness meant a lot to us. Living with people I had just met and who spoke only English was a big challenge. At times we would even confide in each other, crying. However, as I got to know my host family better, their house was somewhere I could truly relax and feel at home. I was so happy to talk about my day, every day. They were also interested in Japanese culture and even tried to speak Japanese with me. On the weekend, they took me to the city and to a footy game – I was surprised by how loudly everyone cheered at the game! Through this exchange, I learned the importance of having the courage to be brave and speak first. Reaching out allowed me to make friends with whim I will keep in touch. I will never forget these two weeks, thank you." Ami Hirai, visiting student from Hiroshima Jogakuin Junior High School 

While the exchange challenged visiting students to navigate a new school, language and culture, it also gave our students the opportunity to open their homes and share a little of Australian life. Year 11 student Maddie Prentice was one of the Kilvington students who welcomed a Japanese exchange student into her family.

"Being part of a host family was such an incredible experience, it provided me with an opportunity to share cultures, between Japanese and Australian. As someone who did multiple activities with all students, each and everyone, was so incredibly kind, and excited to be here." Maddie Prentice, Year 11

China

These connections continued when Kilvington welcomed students from Shanghai West Yan’An Middle School. Like their Japanese counterparts, the visiting students immersed themselves in classes and daily life at Kilvington discovering the differences and similarities between their two cultures.

"Though this trip was short, it left me precious memories and meaningful growth. Every class, every conversation, and every warm smile we shared has become a highlight of this trip on which I have gained new knowledge and experienced cross-cultural communication. I have seen differences as well as similarities between China and Australia in education and daily life. What touches me most is your warmth and sincerity. Your help and friendly conversations have filled our journey with warmth. Kindness knows no borders, and real friendship can cross oceans. We come from different cultures, yet we share a curiosity for knowledge and a passion for life. This is not an end, but a new start. I will keep these experiences in mind and see the world with a broader vision. Finally, sincere thanks to all teachers and friends for your hospitality. May our friendship last long. You are warmly welcome to visit China someday. Thank you!" Siran Wang, visiting student from Shanghai West Yan’An Middle School

For our visiting students, the exchange was a window into Australian school and family life. For their Kilvington hosts and buddies it was equally an opportunity to share their own world while learning about another. Year 7 student Jasper Whiteley enjoyed showing his exchange student some of the best of Melbourne life.

"Hosting a Chinese exchange student was such an enriching experience. My family loved showing our guest our daily life, visiting our house and watching my sister play basketball. Next was lunch and city sightseeing, then playing a hilarious game of mini golf! It was an unforgettable day for us all." Jasper Whiteley, Year 7

For Rowen Zhang the experience also extended beyond the classroom, with the exchange providing an opportunity to share Melbourne’s history and culture while learning about life in China.

"As a buddy and host for the Chinese exchange students, I showed them around our school and introduced them to Australian education style. On Sunday, I took them around Melbourne to see famous landmarks. I explained the city’s architecture, culture, and history, while they shared how these are different in China. We both learned a lot from this valuable experience." Rowen Zhang, Year 8

These connections encourage curiosity, empathy, and a genuine appreciation of perspectives beyond their own. Global Connections offers more than an opportunity to practise a language. It is a chance to become a confident global citizen. Someone who can communicate with others, embrace difference, and participate thoughtfully in an increasingly connected world. Because learning a language is not just about speaking to someone in another language. It is about discovering the world through their eyes.