International partnerships
Introduction |
Background |
Sister cities |
Friendship cities |
Strategic alliance |
Strategic environment |
Key themes |
Covec report |
Brisbane |
Busan |
Fukuoka |
Guangzhou |
Hamburg |
Los Angeles |
Shinagawa |
Tomioka |
Study visits
| Features
Fukuoka
<< Back to main Fukuoka page
Asian-Pacific Children's Convention (APCC)
Avondale Intermediate stories
Pauline Cornwell, principal of Avondale Intermediate
The APC was an excellent journey of learning for our eight ambassadors - their lives have changed from this experience.
It has opened their minds and created new horizons, not only for the students attending but also for their families, friends and community.
The trip to Japan has provided our students with opportunities and possibilities they may not otherwise be able to access.
Chris Graham, chaperone and teacher from Avondale Intermediate
The APCC was of immeasurable value for these students. They were taken out of their comfort zones and had to apply themselves in situations totally foreign to them.
They grew in depth, and this has continued to reflect in their behaviour since their return. They are quietly confident, humble and willing to take first steps in new situations.
My advice is to stay open to every aspect.
Remember protocols and processes that we know and understand you will need to leave behind in New Zealand.
Trust and have faith in your hosts. Their ability to care for you is of the utmost importance to them and they are totally committed to this.
Taylor, student
Taylor
I enjoyed the APCC camp because there were many fun activities like flower arranging, painting, sport and games.
The best memory of the trip was when we visited our host family. We got to go to their house and hang out with them. The people of Japan are very gracious hosts.
I felt prepared for the trip because we had Japanese lessons and the previous junior ambassadors told us what was going to happen in Japan.
My advice for future ambassadors is to have a wonderful time and enjoy every moment of the experience. Immerse yourself totally in Japan's culture and the activities at camp.
Meet new friends and learn from other's cultures. Share your own culture and be proud of who you are and celebrate it. If you do, it will be one of the most memorable times in your life and a stepping-stone to embark on a lifelong love of learning of other cultures.
Tea, student
Tea
At the camp, I enjoyed the most meeting others and trading gifts with them. Everything was so cool and enjoyable.
My best memory of the visit to Japan is seeing my host family and spending time with them, as well as sightseeing, going to different places, having a fun time and just enjoying myself.
My biggest problem was leaving my family, friends and my teacher. I felt prepared for the trip but I was a bit scared.
My advice to the future junior ambassadors is not to be scared and just take the chance. Just try your best and just try to see the other side of you.
Tyla, student
Tyla
My best memory of the visit to Japan was the beach trip.
The activity I enjoyed most during the camp was the play hall.
I felt very well prepared for the trip. My advice to future junior ambassadors is be prepared. Preparation is the key to success.
The trip seems far away but does sneak up.
George, student
George
I enjoyed going to the play hall in the marine camp.
My best memory of the visit to Fukuoka was getting to see my host family for the first time.
I felt well prepared and knew it was going to be a once in a lifetime experience.
The biggest problem I faced was when we had to stay inside.
My advice for future ambassadors is to make the most of it because you will never regret this trip. Try your best to make friends.
Sonny, student
Sonny
Everything was so cool and I especially liked the friendly volunteers.
My best memory of the trip was hanging out, meeting new people and getting to know our roomies.
The activity I enjoyed least was probably the breakfast.
I had problems understanding the language and the other's accents.
I felt prepared for the trip because my mum helped me prepare and get ready.
My advice is to take lots of summer clothes and jandals because it is really hot and the beach is tempting.
Ruth, student
Ruth
My best memory of the trip to Japan was getting to perform in front of my host family and others.
I liked all of the activities, especially the sports day at camp.
I felt prepared for the trip but was very excited.
The biggest problem I faced was leaving my family behind.
My advice to the future junior ambassadors is not to be scared and try to meet the other junior ambassadors.
Don't be afraid to try to have a shower with the other girls (or boys).
<< Back to main Fukuoka page
Updated December 2009
