Testimonial
Year: 12
Country of Origin: Norway
Period of Study: Semester 2, 2018 – Semester 1, 2019
My time at Redlynch State College is ending and soon I will fly home to Norway.
I have made many friends during my 12 month study experience in Cairns. My study choices turned out to be exciting, fun and very helpful:
• English
• Math B
• Marine science
• Chemistry
• Biology
• Tech studies
The activities that Redlynch State College offered included an excursion to the Great Barrier Reef where I had the opportunity to dive along the other marine science students, view marine life and coral and enjoy a great day out. We even saw a green turtle and schools of brilliant coloured tropical fish, making it a day to remember.
During the school year the School Swimming Carnival was held. This is a big social event on the school calendar. My house ‘Falls’ won overall and it was a great chance to meet new friends. Later on in the year during the tropical autumn, the Athletics Carnival turned out to be sensational - luckily, the weather was a nice cool 20°C.
My favourite subject would have to be TECH studies. I spent a year creating products alongside friends. It was a class where you could make anything you wanted as long as it was approved by the teacher.
I attended English as a Second Language (EAL/D) lessons where I expanded my vocabulary and received support for my schoolwork by the EAL/D Coordinator and teacher Mr Bertram.
The International support team coordinated my stay and were always on hand to answer any questions.
My host family was lovely and the environment was friendly and supportive.
My host family was made up of 4 nice people. The father was a teacher who helped me with my school work when needed. The two young girls in my host family have showed me around and made feel like a part of the family in the months that I have been here. I have explored Cairns and surrounds whilst my host family shows me what Australia is really like.
I will always remember my first day here. I went fishing just 1 hour after arriving. When I finished fishing I went with the father to a rodeo and spent my night under the night sky. Spending time with my host family is one of the best things that I have done in my time here and I will never forget it.
Overall, my experience at Redlynch State College and Tropical Far North Queensland was amazing.
I shall never forget this time. A special thanks to my friends. I am grateful for how friendly and helpful they all were. I shall miss them a lot. I also appreciated the company of my international student friends who arrived at Redlynch State College at the same time. I know they will have had an amazing time here and hope they enjoyed every moment.
I discovered that time flies when life is exciting and here in Cairns it simply flew past. If I were to meet other students who are thinking about doing an exchange year, I would recommend the experience to them. It can push you our of your comfort zone but I found it was the best risk I have ever taken.
I would like to thank Redlynch State College, the International Team and my Host family for the wonderful time I have had over the past 12 months. I love the Australian lifestyle and I look forward to my next visit to Australia.
Sindre Vaagsdal