SHIBUYA JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS AT BHCS

We have been incredibly privileged to host 23 students and 2 staff members from Shibuya Junior High School over the past week. We will farewell them early Monday morning when they depart BHCS, stopping for a brief visit to Canberra on their way back to Japan. It has been such a rewarding experience sharing our BHCS and Australian culture with them while also learning about their traditions and customs. Throughout the week, the students participated in a variety of activities.

Students had the opportunity to visit Healesville Sanctuary, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of Australia and getting up close to our iconic wildlife. We also took them on a walk to the local Birdsland Reserve, complete with a classic BBQ lunch. Students joined a variety of BHCS classes - Year 7 Rotations, Year 8 PUSH, 9 & 10 Mathematics and a number of VCE classes. They hosted origami sessions with selected Primary Students and our Year 5's taught them how to kick an Aussie footy and how to destress and refocus with 'Just Dance'.

Break times were occupied with card games, Aussie morning teas, basketball games and skipping with the long rope. We are so thankful for the time shared amongst all students and are particularly proud of our Year 12 students leaders who stepped up and initiated many of these activities and the cohort who joined in.

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the amazing host families who have gone above and beyond in making these students feel welcome. Their hospitality has been nothing short of exceptional, filling the students' evenings and weekends with sightseeing, outdoor adventures, and the chance to experience authentic Aussie family life.

This week has been an incredible exchange of culture, and we are so thankful for the opportunity to build these lasting connections. We hope to continue the partnership with Shibuya Junior High for many years to come!