activist group Ngaˉ Tamatoa through many of Aotearoa’s controversial chapters (led by Liz Hay). Last, the Scholarship cohort was a mix of Years 12–13 students. The topic of ‘treaties and indigenous peoples’ was of great interest to those who already had knowledge, particularly about Te Tiriti o Waitangi. The questions and resources in the exam perfectly matched students’ preparation and expectations. I extend my gratitude to Josh Kim, Warren Lidstone, Charlotte de Roles, Liz Hay, and Neil Nicholson for their support and enthusiasm for the academic programmes this year. I want to acknowledge Liz’s contribution to the department in her time with us. Her experience and expertise in both NCEA History and curriculum development were invaluable. I also acknowledge the team’s work refining and delivering the Systems & Justice programme for the Year 9 cohort. Looking to 2025, we are excited to see roll increases in History across all year groups, indicating an exciting and busy year ahead. Samantha Stevenson HoD History INTERNATIONAL CULTURE & LANGUAGES It was another eventful and enriching year for the Department of International Culture & Languages at College, marked by cultural exchanges, immersion days, and diverse learning experiences across French and Japanese language and culture. The department continued to foster international connections, while managing staff changes and many activities. The year kicked off with the return leg of the Japanese exchange programme. In Term 1, Konan Boys’ High School students Kuranosuke Fukuda, Tyler Okazaki, and Ryusei Miyamoto arrived at College to stay with host families. These students had hosted College students Noah Yee and Ollie Biggs at the end of 2023. Tyler also experienced life as a boarder in
School House. This programme builds strong international ties and lasting friendships. The department also navigated staff absence, welcoming Bronwyn Radcliffe and Liz de Lautour in Term 1 and Term 2, respectively, to help deliver the French culture course. Additionally, we were fortunate to welcome back Susan Harding to teach junior classes during Maude Turgeon-Leblanc’s absence. Susan’s return was seamless, as she was familiar with the school systems, staff, and many students, making her an essential asset. At the end of Term 1, 24 students from Konan Boys’ High School visited College. During their week- long stay, the students were hosted by College families and immersed in local culture while attending classes and exploring the surrounding area. In June, Steve Everingham took senior Japanese students to the University of Canterbury’s 11th annual Japanese Immersion Day, bringing together about 550 students and teachers from 18 secondary schools in Christchurch. The day was designed to improve communication skills for students preparing for NCEA exams and foster a deeper
understanding of the Japanese language and culture. Activities included a plenary session, various workshops, and a collaborative dance project, which concluded the day on a fun and energetic note. Similarly, senior French students attended the French Immersion Day at the University of Canterbury at the end of June. With a Paris Olympic Games theme, students participated in cultural activities, including role-playing, quizzes, and French conversation. They were also treated to a presentation from Lucia Sidonio, an English assistant in France, and enjoyed a casse- croûte featuring traditional French snacks. The day culminated with a presentation by La Découverte, the South Island’s only French-English bilingual school, followed by a group dance. The event concluded with a speech by Éric Soulier, Head of Culture, Education, and Science at the Embassy of France, offering students a unique opportunity to connect with other learners and immerse themselves in the French language and culture. During the Term 3 break, Steve Everingham led a cultural tour to Japan for 18 students, accompanied
by Josh Kim and myself. This was the first Japan tour since 2018, making it a particularly special trip for students and staff alike. Over 16 days, the group explored major cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima, as well as Miyajima Island. The highlights included visiting temples, experiencing the Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima, and taking a tour of the JFE steel
plant in Kurashiki, the sister city of Christchurch. A visit to Konan Boys’ High School, the College’s partner school, provided students with the chance to stay with host families and engage in cultural activities such as judo and calligraphy. The trip was especially meaningful for Mr Everingham, marking his 10th tour with College students to Japan.
The tour was so important for student Ryan Gu that he chose to return to Konan Boys’ High School during the summer break to further immerse himself in Japanese language and culture, a decision that promised to enhance his language skills and deepen his connection to the school. We look forward to hosting his exchange partner at College in Term 1 2025. In a parallel cultural exchange, five Year 12 French language students, along with two Te Reo students, travelled to Tahiti for a two-week immersion experience. The group, led by Madame Turgeon-Leblanc, joined students from St Margaret’s College for an exchange programme with the partner school, Lycée Samuel Raapoto. In Tahiti, students lived with host families and engaged in cultural activities such as traditional Tahitian dance, making shell necklaces, and navigating va’a (traditional Tahitian canoes). They also explored historical sites and the natural beauty of the islands. A highlight of the trip was a two- day visit to the island of Moorea, where students participated in coral gardening and snorkelling, contributing to the region’s environmental preservation efforts. In 2024, the Department of International Culture & Languages had a successful and dynamic year, managing staff transitions, welcoming international students, and offering a range of cultural immersion experiences. Key events included Japanese and French immersion days, cultural tours, and exchange programme, which enhanced students’ language skills and cultural understanding. Contributions from staff members like Steve Everingham, Maude Turgeon-Leblanc, Susan Harding, Bronwyn Radcliffe, and Liz de Lautour were crucial in delivering a rich and engaging curriculum. Overall, the department’s efforts enriched students’ educational journeys and emphasised the importance of global connections. Elaine Tang HoD International Culture & Languages
46
47
Christ’s College Canterbury
Register 2024 Academic
Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator