The partnership between OHS and Kyoai Gakuen continues to strengthen international learning and student connections.

Last week, Onehunga High School welcomed 55 Japanese international students from Kyoai Gakuen as part of a study tour visit. The Kyoai Gakuen students embraced the opportunity to take part in school life at OHS. The programme encouraged learning cultural exchange and the formation of new friendships. Students participated in ESOL classes to strengthen their conversational English skills and attended classes alongside their OHS buddies. The visit allowed them to experience everyday school life in New Zealand while building strong connections with local students.

The visit concluded with a farewell ceremony where each student received a certificate and a small gift in recognition of their participation. Kyoai students also shared performances and interactive Japanese games creating a positive and enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved. The exchange was a valuable experience for both schools and reflected the importance of international learning cultural understanding and global friendships. With the successful introduction of Japanese as a language subject at OHS this year the school is also exploring opportunities to establish a partner school relationship in Japan. This would provide OHS students with valuable opportunities for cultural exchange language learning and international connections in the future.