China visit a learning experience

By NERIDA BLOK

BRIANNA SLATTERY has plenty of reasons to be excited about her trip to China next week.

The 20-year-old from Alstonville, who is in her second year of primary school teaching at SCU, will join a group of 23, mainly university students, on a short-term cultural program run by Australia City College. It will see them teach English at Chinese primary schools and organisations.

"This is my first trip overseas. Australia City College pays for the air fare, and because we're home staying with Chinese families it's a great way to experience the culture of another country and practise my teaching skills all at the same time," Brianna said.

Michael Williamson, also from Alstonville, will be joining the group. Unlike Brianna, Michael is not studying teaching, but music at the University of Queensland.

Currently home on holidays, Michael said he heard about the program through friends and 'thought it sounded like a good idea'.

"Just hearing all the fantastic stories and fun they had I decided to look into it," he said.

Michael, too, is keen to experience another culture and live with Chinese host families.

"We're actually living the culture first-hand," he said.

In addition to the two weeks of teaching, the program also includes a one-week tour of the capital, Beijing. Participants will have opportunities to walk on the Great Wall, see giant pandas, and visit the Forbidden City.

Both Brianna and Michael have attended pre-program training days at the Australia City College at Cromwell College, St Lucia, to equip themselves with the knowledge needed for teaching in China.

To find out more about the program call Belinda Koshy on (07) 3818 2142, or visit their website: www.australiacitycollege.edu.au