Australian Students Look Forward to a Cold Christmas - 10/12/10

It may be approaching summer in Australia with temperatures already in the mid 20^oC but two students from Sydney – who have just experienced snow for the first time - say they can’t wait for their first Christmas here.

Jamie Ferguson, 20, and Patrick Sue, 22, are studying at Canterbury College as part of an exchange programme.

The pair, who are both doing modules from the HND Business with Marketing course and HND Retail Marketing programme, have travelled more than 10,500 miles from Sydney Institute to the campus on New Dover Road.

For Patrick, it is his first ever visit overseas, he said: “I was a little bit homesick when I first arrived, but everyone at the College has been really friendly and made me feel incredibly welcome.” Patrick added: “Although it’s getting quite cold, I’m really looking forward to spending Christmas in Canterbury as it will be very different to festivities on the beach back home.”

Jamie was born in the UK but moved to Australia when he was 11, and had never been to Kent before arriving on the exchange programme.

Jamie said: “There are lots of things the education system in Australia could learn from what’s being done here at Canterbury College, because the building here is so new, the facilities are amazing and the online learning support is more advanced than at home.” Jamie also said: “I love being in England and have actually decided to extend my exchange trip to continue studying at Canterbury College.I would really encourage other students to take part in the programme if they have the chance.”

Away from the classroom, the pair have both got into football while they have been in the UK becoming Everton supporters, and have even managed to go to a game.

Arabella Nairne, Canterbury College International Manager said: “This exchange programme not only helps the students with their academic studies but also provides them with vital life skills and an increased self-esteem.” She added: “Partnerships with international colleges, schools and universities also offer staff the opportunity to develop their own knowledge which helps develop the curriculum and use different teaching methods.”

The International Vocational Knowledge and Skills Exchange is a short term programme that encourages the mobility of students and staff from EU countries and Australia, it started in September 2008 and will run until the end of September 2011.

There are four European partners and two Australian partners, and the aim is to provide an international learning experience for up to 65 students and 25 staff.