During Term 3, 2012 we had a visit from Meijo University High School from Nagoya, Japan for a study tour (2 weeks). We have had a long association with Meijo and will look forward to them visiting us again in 2013.
The programme for the visit is organised by the International Department. ESOL is included in the programme, interaction with our own local students and trips to places of interest between Palmerston North and Wellington.
Meeting the Mayor of Levin is always a highlight, as is the trip to Wellington (Parliament, Cable car, Te Papa) and visiting a local farm to see sheep and cows. The school’s special location gives the overseas students the opportunity to experience ‘the real New Zealand’. We are privileged to have such close access to the lake, the sea, the Tararua Ranges and the farming and horticultural communities. Being close to two cities also makes trips to interesting places very accessible.
Our host families play an important role. Only one student goes to each homestay family so that the students have to rely on themselves to cope in the new environment and with new people, practising their English during their stay.
Our local students enjoy getting to know the Japanese students and many continue the contact after the visit.