French Exchange: A Cultural Milestone
At ĐÓ°É´«Ă˝, learning extends well beyond the classroom. Our unique reciprocal exchange program is designed to foster independence, global awareness, and the wisdom to act well in the world through immersive international experiences.
This year marked the beginning of an exciting new partnership with French school Le Caousou, with Year 10 student Amelie among the first to welcome a visiting student into her family home.
“Having somebody from a very different culture and way of life has been a really fun experience,” said Amelie. “Although she was coming to us to learn about our way of life, I was surprised to find that I also found out a lot about her way of life.”
Her exchange partner, Manon, was equally struck by the contrasts, beginning with the campus itself. “It’s so open and outdoors, which is something we don’t really have much of in France. The massive library honestly blew me away, and what stood out the most, was how kind and welcoming everyone at the school has been. It made settling in here so much easier.”
Both Amelie and Manon agreed the program had shifted their perspectives. “I have learnt a lot more of the French language and really discovered a passion for it,” said Amelie. “Learning about how her French school works was so interesting to me because it is so different from here.”
For Manon, the exchange provided a window into both Australian culture and the intentional learning environments at ĐÓ°É´«Ă˝. “I got to see Australia not just on TV, but in real life, and like many places, it’s so different from how movies show it. It’s also kind of funny how huge this country is. I drove all the way to the Gold Coast, and on the map it didn’t seem far… but it was an eight-hour drive! In France, that would take you across the whole country.”
Her favourite moment? Spotting kangaroos and joeys in Canberra. “That was unforgettable,” she said.
Manon also praised the school’s approach to learning. “Personally, I enjoy it way more. Back in France, it feels like there’s a lot of memorising, but here it’s more about understanding how things work. You can create your own ideas in class.” This reflects the school’s commitment to building intentional experiences that spark curiosity, challenge, and opportunity for accomplishment empowering students to develop the values, skills, and confidence they need to thrive.
In just six weeks, the girls formed a deep connection. “I’m really going to miss having Manon as a part of our family. By the end of her stay here, it really felt like we were sisters,” said Amelie. “All of my friends had bonded so much with her.”
“I think the people are the ones I will miss the most,” added Manon. “Six weeks isn’t long enough to build deep friendships, but it’s long enough to start them.”
With Amelie soon departing for her own exchange in France, she feels inspired by what is ahead. “Seeing how much Manon bonded with my friends and family has made me so excited to form friendships overseas and experience the difference between their culture and our culture.”
As Coordinator of International Programs, Clare Macleod reflected on the milestone: “I am thrilled to be part of this new French partnership.”
Through opportunities like the French Exchange, ĐÓ°É´«Ă˝ lives its motto Life and Knowledge, growing good people with strong character who are prepared to make a difference as ethical global citizens. With this exciting chapter of global learning now underway, the school community looks forward to welcoming more students and continuing to build meaningful connections across cultures.
