Growing Beyond Borders
At Ermitage International School, global education is an integral part of our programmes. Learning about the world is more than just a theoretical concept, and every year, several of our students have the opportunity to see the world. This summer, three Ermitage Lycéens travelled over 16,000 km to Australia, to take part in a month-long academic and cultural immersion programme. It was a life-changing trip, marked by cultural discovery, personal growth and unforgettable friendships. This exchange was not simply about improving English. It was about becoming global citizens: learning to adapt, communicate, collaborate, and thrive in a completely new environment.

Through All the Emotions
The trip began with joy and excitement, but also with apprehension. A positive fear at the idea of exploring a new environment, a new way of learning, a new way of life. But also apprehension about being more independent, living without one's parents, adapting and being accepted in a new school. It is a total adaptation to a new culture that allows them to improve their language skills, make new friends and enjoy an enriching experience far from their everyday lives, within another family. Alex was filled with "excitement and a little apprehension". And yet, it was this mixture of emotions that made the experience real, stimulating and ultimately rewarding. 

A Welcome Like No Other
Upon arrival, Alex and the others, each on their own side, received the warmest Australian welcome imaginable. Cléa shared: "When I arrived, my host family gave me a warm welcome. They showed me around the house, showed me my room and immediately made me feel at ease. I felt welcome and that reassured me straight away." Warm hospitality, shared meals, family outings, and everyday routines quickly turned strangers into second families. From shared jokes and weekend adventures to helping with household tasks and attending family events, students embraced their roles as temporary Australians. One host family lived on the coast, a setting straight out of a postcard. Another shared local traditions like the famous Vegemite taste-test. And one student proudly cooked kangaroo steak, discovering flavors unlike any at home!

School Life: Learning With Freedom and Purpose
Perhaps the biggest cultural surprise was school life. They have experienced the Australian academic system and they realised that days are shorter, yet they are structured to maximize student well-being and autonomy. Students choose many of their subjects, allowing them to pursue areas they truly enjoy - from sciences and business to agriculture, sports, and performing arts.

School finishes at 15:00 ensuring time for homework, sports, hobbies, family life and paid work. Paul emphasised "In Australia, from the age of 16, almost everyone works to earn pocket money and buy a car as soon as they turn 17. " The school also reinforces community spirit through homerooms, similar to the “houses” in Harry Potter. These homerooms compete in sports, academics, leadership, and school spirit - creating unity, motivation, and pride. It didn’t take long for our students to feel part of this system - attending assemblies, participating in activities, and forming genuine friendships.

Australia Through Their Eyes
The Australian exchange was an immersion into powerful, wild, and breathtaking nature. From spotting dolphins and whales along the Mooloolaba and Noosa coasts to experiencing local life through markets and an AFL match, these adventures fostered a profound appreciation for the world's beauty and diversity. Cléa was amazed by the difference in nature "I have visited many parts of Australia and seen their animals, which made me realise that we do not have the same culture or pace of life at all."

In general they realised how quickly time flies when you are having fun. It was as if time had flown by. This exchange was a truly transformative experience for them, to forge bonds with students from all over the world. This was an opportunity that allowed them to flourish personally, and they will always have fond memories of this experience. As an example, Paul gained in maturity: "I think this trip has made me more mature and prepared me for the adult life that awaits me."

Gain of Confidence
Living daily life in another language is both challenging and empowering. From family conversations to classroom discussions, our students quickly gained fluency and courage - culminating in Alex delivering a full speech in English in front of 40 students and teachers. “It was stressful… but I did it. It showed me how much I had grown.” Confidence, once tentative, became authentic and grounded. Four weeks changed everything. Our students didn't just travel, they truly grew, returning with sharpened English skills, profound cultural awareness, a new sense of independence, and the confidence to face any challenge. Plus, they made lifelong friendships along the way!

The Power of International Education
International exchanges are powerful tools for student development. They teach essential qualities like resilience, adaptability, empathy, and a deep global understanding and curiosity about the world. At Ermitage, we are proud to support experiences that shape future-ready, globally-minded leaders. This exchange wasn't simply a trip. It was an important step in their personal and academic journey. As one student perfectly said, "It marked a new chapter of my life."

Looking Forward
They look forward to welcoming Australian students to France soon and continuing to offer our students opportunities to explore, learn and flourish internationally. To all the students who embarked on this adventure, well done! You represented Ermitage International School with maturity, curiosity and kindness. We are proud of you. Here's to new horizons, new challenges and the courage to explore the world!