Academic Excellence Beyond Borders
During the school holidays, 13 students from Year 9 embarked on an enriching academic and cultural tour to Japan, designed to enhance their language skills, deepen their understanding of Japanese history and traditions, and explore the country’s advancements in science and technology.
The tour provided students with an immersive international experience, broadening their perspectives beyond the classroom. Accompanied by dedicated staff, Mr Freeman, Mrs Nathan and Ms Benkenstein, they embraced the opportunity of stepping outside their familiar environment, gaining independence, resilience, and confidence as they navigated life in a different country.
A highlight of the program was a visit to Yashiro High School in Nagano, where students participated in a cultural and language exchange with their Japanese peers. This ongoing partnership between Wenona and Yashiro High School fosters meaningful connections, allowing students to refine their Japanese language skills while gaining insight into daily life in Japan. By engaging in collaborative activities, they strengthened their global awareness and developed a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity.
Beyond the classroom, students explored Japan’s rich historical landscape, visiting Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, the ancient temples of Nara, and iconic forts and palaces. In Hiroshima, they reflected on the significance of historical events at the Atomic Bomb Dome and associated memorials, developing a deeper understanding of Japan’s past and its influence on global history.
In Tokyo, students experienced Japan’s dynamic fusion of tradition and innovation. Visits to leading science museums and technology hubs provided STEM students with first-hand exposure to advancements in robotics, engineering, and artificial intelligence, bridging connections between their academic studies at Wenona and real-world applications.
Throughout the journey, students embraced new challenges, from navigating Japan’s efficient public transport system to ordering meals in Japanese, fostering adaptability and self-reliance. Their time abroad reinforced Wenona’s Values of Courage and Kindness, as well as the spirit of our motto, Ut Prosim, that I may serve, as they engaged with their hosts and peers with curiosity and respect.
Global experiences such as these provide Wenona students with an invaluable opportunity to expand their worldview, build independence, and form lifelong connections. They have returned to School with renewed enthusiasm for learning, a broader cultural perspective, and the confidence to step into new experiences.