A Week of Friendships and New Experiences

Our recent Chinese Study Tour brought a wonderful week of cultural exchange, new experiences and, most importantly, new friendships to McClelland College.

The visiting students joined their McClelland buddies in classes they had never experienced before, including cooking, photography, drama and technology. Their host families also gave them a taste of everyday Australian life through family meals, outings and activities, while the students shared a little of their own culture in return.

The biggest highlight was watching the friendships develop throughout the week. By the final day, Chinese and Australian students were exchanging handmade gifts, contact details, social media and even gaming accounts. Seeing those connections form beyond the classroom was incredibly rewarding.

One of our visiting students, Steve, captured the experience in his own words:

Steve's Study Tour Poem

"Hello everyone, my name is Steve. Time flies man, it’s hard to believe. Soon I gotta leave Australia, time to conceive. All of these memories that I will keep

When I stayed here I met Clive and Mary Hosted me at home, they’re really very Hospitable, treated me beyond ordinary. Told me taste local food, no need to worry. Hot potatoes, curry beef rice on the diary.

And I brought Chinese flavors to their table too. Turtle gelatin, spicy dried radish for the crew. Good food cross-border, we all pulled through.

 Mary took me out, had nothing to rue. Hit the shopping mall, Australian goods I accrued Basketball, long ball game, feeling brand new. Vibes were amazing, my spirit flew

At my school I made heaps of brand-new mates. Some real funny, some bright, some full-on great. New different subjects opened up my gatesFunny teachers in class, I communicate. Help out my classmates, don’t hesitate. After lunch we play ball, celebrate. Laugh out loud, no time to hate.

We toured Melbourne Uni, saw the campus view. Felt their education, learned something new. Went to the zoo, met animals too. Kangaroos, koalas, crocs and lizards in view. Down to the beach, natural scenery broke through. Yeah I got worn out, tired through and through. But all this joy, it pulled me through

Now the moment’s here, I gotta depart. Don’t wanna say goodbye, it breaks my heart. Clive and Mary, friends, teachers, every part. Time flies fast, I’m about to start. My next chapter, but listen to my art. Our story won’t stop, it won’t fall apart. When I grow up, I will make my mark. I’ll come back to see you, that’s my remark."

A huge thank you to our student buddies, staff and host families who made our visitors feel so welcome and helped make the week such a memorable experience.