Group travel enhances learning and personal growth in powerful ways. Students build independence, develop cultural awareness, and strengthen relationships with peers through shared adventures. From exploring iconic sites to practising new languages, these tours provide lifelong memories and essential skills, making it a valuable addition to a well-rounded education.
As our collective world gets smaller, the worlds in which we individually engage become more numerous and complex.
— David Perkins | Professor of Education, Harvard Graduate School
Each year, Kilvington students can travel to our partner schools, fostering global connections and developing intercultural understanding skills. Students can apply to either be part of the biannual Group tour to France, China or Japan for 2 to 3 weeks, or complete an individual tour for 3 to 5 weeks in Japan or France. These experiences help students broaden their horizons, form friendships, and develop a global perspective.
A Journey into French Culture
Students immerse themselves in daily school life, living with a host family, interacting and engaging with the local community.
The adventure continues with a visit to Paris, where students explore iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum. These experiences deepen their appreciation for French history and culture while fostering lifelong connections.
This trip gave me the opportunity to travel independently and improve all aspects of my French skills, but most importantly, my lovely host family and their friends opened my eyes to the value of appreciating the simple joys in life.
— Student | Year 11
Exploring Tradition and Innovation
Kilvington’s Japan tours provide an immersive experience into Japanese culture and language. Students visit partner schools in Tokyo, Hiroshima, and Ogaki, attending classes and engaging in cultural activities such as tea ceremonies and calligraphy. These visits build a deeper understanding of Japanese traditions and education.
The journey also includes time at historical landmarks, fostering an appreciation for not only Japan’s rich heritage but modern pop culture. Students can form lasting connections with Japanese peers, with opportunities to host when our partner schools visit Kilvington. All these experiences contribute to enhancing language skills and fostering personal growth.
My overall experience in Japan was wonderful, with many friendships being formed with my host siblings and classmates. It's a memory I'll treasure for a lifetime.
— Student | Year 12
A Blend of History and Modernity
The China tour introduces students to the fascinating contrasts of ancient and modern China. In Beijing, they explore historical treasures like the Great Wall, Forbidden City, and Summer Palace, while engaging in cultural activities like Taichi and dumpling-making.
The journey continues in Shanghai, where students attend West Yan’an Middle School and enjoy a homestay with local families. This unique experience offers a glimpse into everyday life while fostering global connections. Visits to sites like Nanjing Road and Zhujiajiao Water Town provide further cultural immersion, making this tour a transformative learning adventure.
Traveling to China was unforgettable. Visiting the Great Wall and The Forbidden City brought history to life, while experiencing homestays and Chinese school life connected me intimately to the culture. The trip gave me new skills, perspectives, and lasting memories.
— Student | Year 9
Visitors from Partner Schools
Hosting visitors from our partner schools fosters meaningful cultural interactions and personal growth. Students from France, China or Japan share their culture and perspective on Australian culture, teaching Kilvington students to engage with other cultures and see the world from a different perspective.
Kilvington families benefit immensely from hosting students from our partner schools as often inviting someone in their home is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, spend time together and celebrate what Australia has to offer. These experiences contribute to inspire learning, curiosity, tolerance and foster lasting memories for all participants.