International Student Learning Hub Hosts Orientation Day

A Warm Welcome to Our New International Students

The start of Term 3, 2025, brought a wonderful new chapter to our school community, as we opened our doors to five bright and determined international students. Hailing from China and South Korea, they arrived ready to embrace new experiences, learn in a different cultural setting, and share their own stories with us.

Their first official day was filled with both excitement and discovery. Our International Student Program hosted a full-day orientation, designed not just to introduce classrooms and timetables, but to make every newcomer feel at home. From campus tours to interactive activities, the day helped them understand school life, make friends, and feel confident about the term ahead.

Much of this warm welcome was made possible thanks to our international student leaders and buddies, who stepped up to guide, encourage, and connect with our new arrivals. Their patience, kindness, and genuine enthusiasm reflect the spirit of our community.

Special thanks also go to Principal Glenn and Assistant Principal Belinda, whose personal greetings and warm conversations with students and their families set the tone for the supportive relationships we value so highly.

This term also marked the launch of our Buddy Program—an initiative designed to bring local and international students together. It was heartening to watch conversations spark, laughter fill the air, and the first threads of lifelong friendships begin to weave.

We are excited to see how our newest students will grow—both in their studies and in the friendships they form. With the encouragement of our teachers, leaders, and peers, we know they will not only adapt but flourish, adding their own unique colours to the rich tapestry of our school life.

Student Reflection – Buddy Program & Orientation Day I’m so glad to have started my studies at Doncaster Secondary College this week. On my first day, Ms Huang introduced me to Elyse, a friendly girl with blonde hair and blue eyes. She has one brother and one sister and enjoys K-pop and listening to music in her free time. Elyse kindly showed me to my classroom and made me feel welcome. On Tuesday, I met my second buddy, Mia from Beijing. She speaks excellent English and has many local friends. Every morning, she meets me at the International Students Learning Hub, guides me to class, and gives me tips on communicating with teachers. I really admire her and see her as a role model. Later, I was paired with Judy, who is from my hometown of Shanghai and in the same class as me. She is quiet but always ready to help, often translating for me so I can understand lessons better. Her independence inspires me. I feel lucky to have three such kind and supportive buddies.

One highlight of the first day was tasting multicultural snacks—my favourite was the coconut-flavoured lollies, which reminded me of home in Shanghai.

Orientation included learning the visa conditions, school map, timetable, and rules. We toured the campus, visited the library, and borrowed books.

It was truly an unforgettable first day, and I am grateful for such caring teachers, leaders, and classmates. I look forward to learning and growing here at DSC. – Guqin (Grace) Xu

On my first day at DSC, I felt nervous until I met my buddy, Satia. We discovered we share many interests, including a love for summer, music, and sports. Snack time was a highlight, with my favourite being sweet purple jelly. I was also warmly welcomed by the principals, explored the library, learned school rules, and found my way around. It was a great first week! – Celine Zhao

My first week at DSC has been wonderful. My buddy, Yolanda, is friendly and helpful—we often talk about hobbies, snacks, and schoolwork. I enjoyed trying salt and vinegar chips during snack time. I’m excited to study hard and learn more in the future. – Annie Hu

My first week at DSC was memorable and exciting. My buddy, Cindy from Taipei, introduced herself, and I also made many other new friends who help me with school life. I enjoyed the multicultural snacks, especially crispy seaweed. I’m proud of my progress and look forward to my journey here. – Siss XU

My buddy, Mia Yang, is a Year 7 student from China who enjoys K-pop and playing Minecraft. I liked the sweet multicultural snacks, especially chocolate and jelly. The school tour was fun, and I was amazed at how big DSC is. – Rihan (Lina) Kim