Published on: 26 July 2018


Each year, the School offers an amazing opportunity for Year 10 boys to be immersed in school environments around the world through Beyond Queenslea Drive.

The exchange program provided student Harry Stevenson with a cultural experience and five-week immersion in China’s capital during the first half of Term 2.

“In late April I landed in Beijing as part of the program and was met by my host family. They spoke  English relatively well but sometimes it was hard to communicate what I was trying to say,” says Harry.

“I attended Beijing Huijia Private School, our partner school, and was the only European student there, surrounded by 2000 students who all spoke Chinese and perhaps half spoke enough English to understand what I was saying.”

“During my time at Huijia I had plenty of extra Chinese lessons and also visited the Forbidden City and the Great Wall of China.”

“The trip to China changed my view on the world and made me realise how lucky I am to live in Australia. The trip really helped me improve my Chinese and the exchange program was definitely worth going on to experience how a foreign and different country works compared to Australia.”

Director of Activities Neil Saggers commented, “Beyond Queenslea Drive is seen as an important addition to our special learning environment for boys at Christ Church.”

“As well as gaining friends overseas, participants gain a real personal sense of growth and improved international awareness.”

“The exchange is reciprocal. In agreeing to take part in the program, each boy and their family agrees to host a student in return.”

“This week we welcomed Harry’s exchange buddy to Christ Church, in addition to many other exchange students who arrived last week. Jason will explore Perth and surrounds over three weeks while being hosted by Harry’s family. We wish Jason an enjoyable experience during his time with us.”