Port’s Japan connection

For the third year running, Port Macquarie will host hundreds of Japanese students in November and December, providing the opportunity for local families to engage in a very rewarding cultural exchange opportunity.

The students, ranging in ages from 18 to 23, are from Tohoku Foreign Language College in Sendai , Japan . They will attend classes at the North Coast Institute of TAFE NSW at Port Macquarie campus for just over two weeks, from 27 November to12 December.

In previous years local families have enjoyed hosting one or two students, often developing lasting friendships continued by mail or email. The experience of living with Australian families during their stay adds to the cultural experience and helps students develop their English language skills.

From Monday to Friday the students attend English classes at Port Macquarie campus, which include excursions to local wildlife parks, Aboriginal bush tucker experiences at the Wigay gardens in Kempsey and a river cruise on the Hastings .

On weekends the students either join families for activities or meet up to go shopping and enjoy the beaches. Families who host the students receive a subsidy to cover meals and transport costs for the two weeks.

Information packages and registration forms for becoming a host family can be obtained from Stacie Bassett on 65803580.

On a related subject, Port Macquarie campus of TAFE NSW is offering a short course in Japanese language and culture on Tuesday evenings commencing 20 October. The course will cover greetings, introductions and courtesy phrases, useful questions and answers, cultural differences affecting communication and social customs.

The course will be of great benefit to anyone doing businesses with Japan , or anyone interested in Japanese customs and communication styles and are even thinking of hosting Japanese students sometime in the future.

Places are limited, so anyone interested in the course is advised to contact Lisa Rushton at Port Macquarie campus on 65803577. Cost is $72 for the 5 weeks.