Gold Educational Tours encourage Rockingham and Baldivis families to host Japanese student for big prize

Playing host to a Japanese high school student could bag a Rockingham or Baldivis family a trip of their own to the land of the rising sun. Year 12 students from Toyota Technical Academy are set to arrive for a four-night stay on May 29 and program co-ordinators are offering up the reward to attract new families to the homestay program, or reward one already involved. “It’s our way of thanking the generous families who open their homes and hearts to these students,” Gold Educational Tours director Jason Hutchinson said. “Their hospitality makes these cultural exchanges truly meaningful.” Mr Hutchinson said it was the first time in Gold Education Tours’ 21 years it had offered a trip to Japan as an incentive. Any host families involved this year will be automatically entered in the draw. They will also be paid $220 and offered bilingual support. Exchange and host programs run year-round, with more than 2000 children visiting WA each year. Most stays are a week or longer but this visit is only four days to suit the Japanese school. Rockingham local Heather Howard has hosted 26 Japanese students over the past 18 months and said the experience was unforgettable. “I was a real home-body but having these students have gotten me out of my own rut,” she said. “I think a lot of people are apprehensive to host because they don’t want the pressure of entertaining but new experiences as simple as a walk on the beach really excites the kids I’ve had.” Ms Howard said she could not wait to take in more students in hopes of winning the trip to Japan. “Win or not, Japan is on the bucket list for me,” she said. “We’ve created lifelong connections and now have an extended family in Japan. The smiles of the students and the friendships we’ve build have truly filled my heart.” Visit Gold Educational Tours website.