Exchange Update
Our International Exchange Program is a wonderful opportunity to learn about other cultures and places. These experiences have been life changing for the girls who participate with many becoming lifelong friends with their host sisters and students at their host school.

This term we welcomed Rose Multani from The Athenian School in Danville, California, USA and Jun Noda from Tokyo for the first five weeks who were hosted by Jade McAskill and Isabelle Weng respectively. Both girls had wonderful experiences and I would like to take this opportunity to thank their families for being so welcoming and accepting these girls into their homes.

Ella Meyer returned from Landheim Ammersee in Munich, Germany early in the term and her reflections are below.

Tam Do (Kogakuin School, Tokyo), Lainie Reu (Cobham Hall, UK) and Sophie Wheeler (Westfield School, UK) will be leaving for their exchanges this week. We wish them safe travels and look forward to hearing about their experiences when they return.

Ella Meyer Exchange Reflections

HOST SCHOOL: Landheim Ammersee

My Exchange Experience to Munich, Germany: I recently had the incredible opportunity to go on exchange to Germany. I attended a school located about an hour's drive from Munich, in the stunning countryside on the Ammersee lake. Most weekends, I ventured into Munich, soaking in the vibrant culture and exploring its many historic landmarks. I was also very fortunate to be in Germany during the Euro’s. One of the highlights of my time there was a day trip to Salzburg, Austria, where I got to explore a bit of my ancestry. This is also where the Sound of Music was filmed and where Mozart was born.

A standout experience during my exchange was a seven-day canoeing camp that took us through the northern part of Bavaria. Paddling along river, I was able to deepen my relationships with peers and make countless memories.

My exchange experience was incredible. I developed lasting relationships, gained a deeper appreciation for different cultures, and grew significantly as a person. I returned home more confident and capable, with a renewed sense of independence and a camera roll filled with unforgettable experiences.

Round Square Regional Conference - Rockhampton 
By Isla, Emilia, Rachel and Cleo 

At the end of Term 2, the four of us had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2024 Round Square trip to Rockhampton Grammar School in Queensland. Throughout this experience, we participated in a variety of outdoor activities that truly challenged us and pushed us out of our comfort zones. One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was meeting people from around the world, forming friendships, and building new relationships along the way. We explored a new part of Australia, which was an especially eye-opening experience.  

On the first night, we attended the opening dinner, which brought together participants from around the globe in a warm and welcoming school environment. The evening was filled with delicious food, lively conversations and the exchange of cultural stories. We really enjoyed meeting new friends and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. This dinner set the tone for the rest of the conference, fostering a sense of community and excitement for the days ahead. It was an unforgettable start to an incredible journey. 

The activities we took part in included snorkelling, boom netting, tree planting, canoeing, surfing and participating in Baraza groups. During the Baraza group discussions, we had the chance to reflect on our day and share our views on global issues. This was a key component of the trip, providing us with the opportunity to voice our opinions and share our thoughts. 

As we engaged in these activities, we learned many valuable life and social skills. While snorkelling and boom netting, we had extraordinary encounters with beautiful sea creatures such as fish, turtles, and coral. This experience allowed us to appreciate the unique marine life and environment. Boom netting was particularly thrilling, involving 3-6 people on a net attached to the back of the boat. Doing this gave us the chance to experience a new and exciting outdoor adventure. 
 
Throughout the conference, we made new friends from different states and countries, even exchanging pins with students from places like Japan and India. It was a wonderful opportunity to become more social, meet new people and learn about different cultures.