“Attending school in Australia is less formal and more interactive than attending school in France”, according to three French exchange students who have spent the past month studying at Comet Bay College. 
Prior to arriving in Australia, the students knew that school would be less serious and more relaxed than in France. But they were pleasantly surprised at the informal way in which teachers speak to their students and listen to their point of view.
School hours in Australia are much shorter than in France, where they attend from 8am to 6pm. The favourite part of their Australian school experience was the way they were treated as part of the class from the outset, allowing them to spend most lunchtimes “hanging out” with their new friends.
The French students really enjoyed participating in fun options such as photography, drama and cooking which aren’t offered in the academic schools they attend back in France. They also liked expanding their knowledge in Maths, Business and Music here at Comet Bay College.
Weekends were spent seeing the sights of Perth with their school friends and host families. Their favourite memories included eating pancakes in Fremantle, surfing, bowling and spending weekends away in Pemberton, Margaret River and Hamelin Bay.
Australians are such nice people – so friendly and welcoming
A big thank you to the families who hosted our French students and to the Comet Bay College staff and students who made them feel so welcome.