Building Connections Across Cultures: MacKillop and Seishu High School Strengthen International Ties

The bonds formed between MacKillop College and Seishu High School in Sapporo continue to grow, with students recently enjoying two unforgettable cultural exchange experiences that have brought our communities even closer together.

Earlier this year, a group of MacKillop students travelled to Japan, where they spent a week immersed in everyday life through a homestay program with families from Seishu High School. The experience gave students the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and develop a deeper understanding of Japanese culture, language and traditions.

During their time in Sapporo, students attended classes at Seishu High School, shared meals with local students, explored the city and experienced life as part of a Japanese family. They embraced everything from karaoke, purikura photo booths and local attractions to cultural experiences across Hokkaido, creating friendships and memories that will last a lifetime. Students described their host families as welcoming, generous and caring, with many feeling as though they had gained a “second family” during their stay. [Assembly -…peech 2026 | Word]

The journey continued beyond Sapporo, with students exploring some of Japan’s most iconic destinations including Kyoto, Hiroshima, Osaka and Tokyo. Along the way they visited significant historical and cultural landmarks, gaining valuable insights into Japan’s rich history and contemporary society. [Assembly -…peech 2026 | Word]

More recently, MacKillop College had the privilege of returning that hospitality, welcoming students and staff from Seishu High School to Werribee. Staying with MacKillop families, our Japanese visitors experienced life in Australia firsthand, attending classes, participating in school activities and immersing themselves in the culture and community of MacKillop College.

The visit provided a wonderful opportunity for students from both schools to strengthen friendships, develop their language skills and gain confidence communicating across cultures. For many families, opening their homes to international guests was a rewarding experience that created meaningful connections extending well beyond the visit itself.

These exchange opportunities highlight the value of authentic cultural learning. While language skills are certainly enhanced, the greatest lessons often come through shared experiences, new friendships and a deeper appreciation of different ways of life.

MacKillop College is grateful to the students, staff and families from both schools whose enthusiasm and generosity continue to make this partnership so special. As friendships between Australia and Japan continue to flourish, we look forward to many more opportunities for our students to learn from one another and broaden their understanding of the world.

Photos from both the Japan immersion and the recent Seishu High School visit will accompany this story.