Last weekend, we celebrated a special milestone as the Edogawa Toride High School students from Japan graduated from their two-week international study tour at Northside.

Over the past fortnight, these wonderful young people have not only improved their English to an impressive standard, but also embraced life at our College with enthusiasm, warmth, and curiosity. They participated in classes alongside our students, shared in our school routines, and experienced first-hand the hospitality and vibrancy of Australian culture.

This visit was especially meaningful as Mrs Hernandez will be taking 18 Northside students to Japan in November—another exciting step in building our relationship and friendship for the future.

A big thank you to all host families who opened their homes to the students. We also extend a big thank you to everyone—staff, students, and volunteers—who contributed to making this program such a success. Your warmth and willingness to engage have created connections that will continue to bridge cultures and build friendships across oceans.

As our friends return to Japan, they leave with improved language skills, new perspectives, and treasured memories.