Over the past two weeks, Loyola College was delighted to welcome 20 students and 2 teachers from our sister school, Liceo Primo Levi, in Montebelluna, Italy, as part of our Italian Exchange Program.

During their stay, our Italian guests experienced life as Loyola students, attending classes, participating in excursions, and immersing themselves in Australian culture while staying with generous host families. Highlights of the visit included exploring Melbourne's iconic landmarks, attending an AFL match at Marvel Stadium, visiting Melbourne Zoo, and sharing many memorable experiences together.

The final part of the exchange has been a wonderful opportunity for students from both schools to develop their language skills, broaden their cultural understanding, and, most importantly, form lifelong friendships. It has been inspiring to see the confidence, kindness, and enthusiasm shown by all students as they embraced new experiences and learned from one another.

We extend our sincere thanks to our incredible host families for opening their homes and making our Italian visitors feel so welcome.

As we farewell our Italian friends, we know the friendships and memories created over the past two weeks will last a lifetime. We look forward to continuing this special partnership with Primo Levi for many years to come.

Student Reflections:

Participating in the exchange with Liceo Primo Levi was one of the best experiences I’ve had. It gave me the opportunity to improve my Italian, while allowing my buddy to develop her English skills, as well as giving me a deeper understanding of Italy’s culture. The exchange also helped create new lifelong friendships, which was strengthened even more when our buddies visited us in Australia, where we were able to show them, what life is like here in Melbourne. It was an unforgettable opportunity and I’m incredibly grateful for the experience.

Zarah Clough
(10/FIBE)

The cultural exchange between students from Liceo Primo Levi in Montebelluna and Loyola College in Melbourne was an unforgettable experience. During the exchange, we visited places such as Treviso, Venice and the Veneto region in Italy, while the Italian students explored the city of Melbourne, the Melbourne Zoo and the Great Ocean Road. I really enjoyed the exchange as it gave me a cultural experience I will never forget. It also helped me practice my Italian language skills which is a bonus. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity that allowed me to build friendships and experience another way of life.

Xavier Dal Cin
(11/MYKS)