An Unforgettable Exchange Experience

On Thursday 24 July, Kinross Wolaroi School warmly welcomed six students from Tosajuku High School in Kochi, Japan. Over the following weeks, the students were hosted by six of our Year 10 families, who generously opened their homes and shared their lives. During their stay, our visitors joined classes, experienced daily school life, and enjoyed excursions to Sydney, the Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, and Canberra.

While these trips created unforgettable memories, it was the time spent at home that made the exchange so meaningful. One of our Year 10 students, Lily Moe, shared her experience of hosting, describing the joy of welcoming their exchange buddy, Akari, into their family.

Building friendships

For this family, the decision to host was about more than just cultural exchange – it was about making a new friend.

“Having Akari herereally got rid of that lonely feeling as I had someone to talk to, hang outwith, watch movies with, cook with – everything,” the student explained.

Before Akari arrived, the two had already connected online and discovered shared hobbies and even the same favourite music artist.

“It was the fact that I would have a new friend who I could talk about our different experiences, compare our cultural differences and just spend time with that really made me feel excited.”

Discovering culture and daily life

Through everyday conversations, students and families learnt about life in Kochi. For example, Tosajuku students attend Saturday school, ride their bikes each morning, and enjoy a wide range of co-curricular clubs such as calligraphy, gardening and astrology. Even casual conversations revealed cultural differences – such as the use of informal slang and language shortcuts compared to the formal Japanese being taught in class.

Fun and laughter

While excursions to the zoo and sightseeing were highlights, it was the smaller, everyday moments that built lasting friendships. A funny memory from one host family came on the very first day:

“I tried to show Akarithe leg rest feature of our couch but accidentally knocked over her water allover the floor! I felt super embarrassed, but she just laughed, which made me laugh – it ended up being a great icebreaker.”

New routines, lasting memories

Hosting an exchange student also brought about changes in household routines. From eating breakfast together to adjusting bedtimes, families found themselves embracing new rhythms that strengthened the bonds offriendship.

By the end of the program, many of our students spoke about how close they had become with their exchange buddies – friendships that will continue across borders.

“I can’t wait to see her again when I fly over toJapan,” Lily said, “I’m really glad that I can talk to her about anything nowthat we’ve gotten closer.”

Looking ahead

The Tosajuku Exchange Program was a highlight of our school 2025 calendar, giving students from both countries the chance to share cultures, build friendships, and create memories that will last a lifetime. For many of our families, the question is not if they would host again, but simply when.