When cultures meet, learning expands and students discover the world in new and meaningful ways. We love hosting international school groups and this year we welcomed 90 students and 10 adults from five school groups visiting from Japan and South Korea.
Our classrooms, playgrounds and classes were full of energy as our students and international groups learned together, worked side by side and discovered both the differences and the shared joys of school life across the world. A highlight for us is always seeing our students step into Buddy roles, welcoming the international students with kindness and forming friendships.
"Having an international buddy was something truly meaningful. As a Japanese student, being with someone who shared my language and background made everything feel more natural. When they left, it felt like something gentle and important had ended, but the memory of that time still stays with me. It reminded me how even brief connections can leave behind something lasting, like a soft echo that stays in the background of everyday life. I still think about the small moments we shared and somehow, they continue to shape how I move feel at school. There is a quiet warmth in knowing that even short encounters can leave behind something that does not fade." - Amane, Year 7
Visiting students also experienced a taste of the Australian adventure, including making ANZAC biscuits, learning first aid and snake bite response, taking surf lifesaving lessons, enjoying a trip to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and experiencing rich learning on our campus with staff and students.
"I really enjoyed my school days, learning new English in the classroom and it was very different from my school in Korea but I liked it a lot. I was shy at first but I liked talking to my buddies and Australian friends. I want to study English more." - Korean student
"I was afraid to speak English, but the teachers encouraged me everyday. The activities like beach excursion, learning about the fire and throwing boomerang was very unique but it was very fun." - Korean student
"I will never forget meeting koalas and kangaroos at the zoo, making ANZAC cookies, and playing pickleball in the PE class at the local school. I was so happy to see my buddy and friends from last year again. I really enjoyed spending time with GCCC students during lunch and break times. I want to say thank you to all the teachers and students, especially to my lovely and kind buddy, I’m so glad I met you! Thank you for spending fun times together, like playing Jenga and having morning tea." - Yui, Japanese student
"I was deeply impressed by [the College's] thoughtful, caring community where everyone truly looks after one another. It’s the perfect environment for short-term visiting students, as the close-knit atmosphere helps them feel welcomed and supported from the very beginning." - Soohyun Hong, Oz Gekko Travel Services
"By sharing your school life and learning with them, you have given them something no textbook can teach. Thank you, GCCC, for helping our students take this important step toward the world." - Tomoko INUKAI, TAKEOFF Gold Coast
International visits enrich our school with laughter, connection and shared learning. We are grateful for every student and teacher who travelled to be with us as we continue building a community that is warm, inclusive, globally connected and committed to sharing the love of Jesus.
Thank you to our incredible International Team, Mrs Steph Britz and Ms Natasha Kitevski, along with our wonderful Student Buddies and staff for making these visits meaningful.