COVID-19 caused great disruption to international travel and school exchange programs were among the many activities affected.
But in another sign of things getting back to normal, students and teachers from Hoppers Crossing Secondary College are about to embark on the school’s first overseas trip post-pandemic, with a delegation travelling to Italy next month.
Nine students and two teachers will visit their sister school in the northern Italian city of Forli, as part of a language immersion program from September 10 to 25.
“The purpose is to reconnect with our sister school and re-establish international travel between the two schools,” trip organiser and Hoppers Crossing Secondary’s year seven co-ordinator, Emily Irwin, said.
“The trip is also designed to develop their Italian language skills and for them to learn about Italian culture and enhance their cultural awareness.”
Ms Irwin said the students, all from years 11 and 12, will mix education with exploration.
“They’re gonna visit attractions and also attend school for four days, doing classes and teaching the sister school about Hoppers Crossing Secondary college and the area.”
Ms Irwin said the school looked forward to returning the favour soon.
“We hope that in the next two years they will have the opportunity to come out here and be hosted by us as well.”
