INDONESIAN VISIT

A journey filled with vibrant EXPERIENCES!

On Sunday, April 27, a group of Indonesian students from BM400 High School arrived in Melbourne! Accompanied by their teachers, the Year 10 and 11 students came to discover our city, put their English language skills into practice, and spend time at our school!

Before they came to visit us, they took part in many activities, both local and in the city. One of their first stops was at the Indonesian Consulate General in Melbourne, which focuses on consular services for Indonesians. Other activities they participated in included tours of both Melbourne University and Monash University, and relaxing at Brighton Beach.

Then on Wednesday, the Indonesian students came to Lilydale High School! In the morning they met with their assigned LHS student buddies to attend classes with them and learn about school in Australia. Our new friends also attended other in-school activities, such as assemblies and instrumental music lessons. This was all a great opportunity for LHS students to learn about Indonesian schools too, and how Indonesia differs from Australia.

On Thursday, we all met up again to attend classes together and build on our friendships. Then at lunch, the Indonesian students had something exciting to show us - they had prepared presentations and performances for us to celebrate their culture and lifestyle! It was really special, particularly the traditional dance and musical performance which had the audience in awe!

Friday was our last day together at school, and some of the Indonesian students also spent time with our Year 11 PE students to learn all about AFL. Then, before we knew it, it was time for them to leave us. After making strong connections, some students exchanged contact details, and many gave small gifts to each other. Everybody reflected on the wonderful times we'd shared together, and although we were saying goodbye, nothing could take away the wonderful memories we had made!

The Indonesian students and their teachers then stayed in Melbourne for a few more days, enjoying trips to Phillip Island, The Yarra Valley Chocolaterie, Chadstone Shopping Centre, and the Yarra River. To finish their time here, they did two final tours of higher education providers - La Salle College and RMIT.

Feedback from our Indonesian friends is that Australia is interesting and beautiful, and they thank us all for our hospitality. We are so grateful for the time we got to spend with them and hope to see students from BM400 High School here again next year!

Sigourney Crocker | Year 9 Vice Captain