Sister School Visit

Visit from our sister school in New Caledonia

The school was incredibly fortunate to welcome 22 students from our sister school Dumbéa Sur Mer in New Caledonia. These students spent an entire week immersed in school life and staying with GEC families. During their visit, these students attended classes alongside their host students and also took part in a range of activities designed to give them a taste of Australian culture. 

It was a wonderful experience for everyone involved. Students had the chance to learn about each other’s cultures, share stories and practise speaking both French and English.  We are already looking forward to visiting our sister school in New Caledonia next year to continue this exciting cultural exchange!

Here is what students from New Caledonia and Australia had to say about the experience.

“We are truly grateful for the warmth and generosity our amazing hosts have shown us during our week-long stay from 29th July to 5th August. They not only welcomed us into their homes but also opened our eyes to the beauty and richness of Australian culture. From learning about native animals to tasting the delicious Pavlova, we have experienced things we will never forget." 

Elaia, Year 8 student from New Caledonia

“I feel like we’ve made new friends for life, and we are incredibly grateful for the hospitality and kindness of our hosts. I also want to thank the teachers from the school who helped organize all the activities. We are already looking forward to welcoming you all next year, and we can't wait to share some of the same unforgettable moments with you. We hope to see you again very soon!” 

Elsa, Year 8 student from New Caledonia

"One thing I loved about hosting a student from New Caledonia was all the amazing activities I got to do with my exchange student. We went to the Queen Victoria Market with some of the other host families and students, where we got to try some delicious food. We also visited a wildlife sanctuary, where we got to feed kangaroos and pet a koala. I also really enjoyed doing African dancing and going to classes together. It was such a unique experience being able to show somebody else all the things about my daily life and learn about how it contrasts with life in New Caledonia. For example, school starts at 7am there, which is just so different to school in Australia. Finally, I’m so grateful for the friendships I was able to make out of this opportunity. Over the course of a week, I became really close friends with my exchange student, and I hope one day I’m able to come and visit her in New Caledonia!"

Emma McCaffrey, Year 10 

“It has been an amazing experience to host a student from New Caledonia and show them our favourite things around Melbourne. Some of us went to the National Gallery of Victoria, as a beautiful display of French impressionism is currently showing. Others went to Chadstone, the biggest shopping centre in the southern hemisphere, and others went to Luna Park. We are so proud of our home and our school, and we are so thankful to have had the opportunity to make our special guests from New Caledonia discover our beautiful city and school.” 

Audrey McNeil, Year 10 

Celine Fompudie

Languages Learning Area Leader