International Exchange Australia
Things to think about before you go
When you arrive in Australia you will find a lot of differences. This will be a time for new experiences and discoveries. Keep an open mind, try new things! Show an interest in Australian culture, find out about the country.
Here are a few guidelines to help you adjust.
School
- Our sister schools in Australia are private and unisex. They are places where students go to grow intellectually and spiritually. A lot of emphasis is placed on personal development and being part of a team. Students are encouraged to excel in many fields, depending on their talents, which could be: music, art, sport, theatre, debating, leadership or academics. Each student belongs to a House which has its own name, colours and emblems.
- Being a member of the school also involves responsibilities and obligations. You are expected to live up to your school’s name and wear its emblem with pride.
- School starts between 08:00-08:30 and finishes early, at 15:00-15:30.
- Students in Australia may NOT leave the school grounds during school hours without permission. This includes the lunch break. The school is legally responsible for you during this time.
- Lunch usually lasts one hour and students bring their own packed lunch (lunchbox) or buy food from the “tuck-shop”.
- Assembly is held daily or weekly. This quick gathering for teachers and students is an effective means for the school to communicate the latest school news.
Uniforms
- Uniforms, including the sports uniform, are organised by your host family through the uniform shop (except Scots, see below). When you are in uniform you are representing your school. Students should look tidy and have irreproachable behaviour, especially when wearing school uniform. Smoking within school grounds or in uniform is forbidden.
- Exchange students are required to have black closed-in shoes (preferably lace-ups, if not, loafers and T-straps are acceptable, but not "ballerines").This is also for security and insurance reasons when working in science labs. Students should also bring runners/sneakers.
- MLC correspondents generally wear black tights as it can be chilly.
- Somerville correspondents need to buy the regulation socks when they arrive.
- Scots correspondents are not required to wear uniform, but should wear full length, dark trousers (not jeans), a shirt and jacket, and black, lace-up shoes.
At Home
- Habits are different, for instance, dinner is often between 18:00-19:00. Breakfast is usually more copious than in France. Find out the family rules on using the computer, watching TV, going out etc.
- Keep your room tidy; help with the dishes & other family chores.
Phone
- Be considerate when using your host family’s phone, keep your calls brief & always ask permission.
- When out, keep contact numbers on you at all times (school, family) and buy a phone card immediately.
Electric Plugs
- If you intend bringing electric appliances (camera, MP3) don’t forget to bring an adapter. You can find them in France or in the airports.
Behaviour
- Please show courteous behaviour towards staff, fellow students and family members. Australians are usually friendly and informal, however, be polite and don’t just open the fridge & cupboards without asking.
- Speak ENGLISH at all times in Australia, and when your host brother/sister is in France you MUST make an effort to speak FRENCH. Remember it’s a language exchange. His/her French may not be as good as your English so you’ll need to make an effort.
- Australians don’t kiss each other, men shake hands.
Environment
- Most Australians have a strong sense of responsibility towards their community and wildlife.
- There are severe fines for littering and it is forbidden in many places to feed wild animals.
- WATER is a precious commodity in Australia, sometimes there are water restrictions. Please do not take long showers or let the water run when you are brushing your teeth or washing the dishes.
- Most of all enjoy yourselves & come back with lots to tell. Try an Australian pie, lamington, some vegemite, pavlova, anzac biscuits !!!!!!!
Dernière modification le 11-07-11 par
