A number of organisations offer secondary school exchange programs. Students and parents should begin their research by looking carefully at websites and attending information sessions where possible.
A great organisation to consider is Student Exchange AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND (www.studentexchange.org.au). This well-known organisation has registration with Departments of Education around Australia and New Zealand.
Here is a Quick summary of highlights…
Programs
There are a number of programs available through Student Exchange AUSTRALIA NEW ZEALAND.
- Semester and year-long programs to over 25 countries offer students the chance to live with a host family and attend school in the new country.
- Short term programs run for 2-3 months in Australia, Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden or the United Kingdom. Students can leave in November and be back in time for the new school year after the Christmas holidays here.
- The new TwoWay Exchange program allows a student to swap family, home and school with another student in France or Canada for 3 months. This is a cost effective option to consider.
Scholarships
There are a number of different scholarships available. Check the website as these change from year to year.
Country of choice
Students are given their country of choice. This is very attractive as some organisations do not promise this.
Website
The website contains fantastic videos, student testimonials (Student Updates) and interesting FAQs. I would encourage students and parents to make contact early, to ask a lot of questions and to attend an information session.
Finally…
Students and their parents can plan well ahead so that students can work part-time and contribute toward the costs. The benefits far outweigh the costs. Under ‘Why choose us?’ make sure you read the Service Commitment for this organisation. It is very reassuring and shows the level of care offered to participating students