Bayside P-12 college is searching for friendly families, couples and singles like Meg Chun, to host international students studying in Newport.
Ms Chun recently began her foster journey with her new house guest Bean, with the16-year old recently moving from Vietnam to complete his high school education.
“This is my first time with a host kid, he came in February and it has been a learning experience,” she said.
With a young four-year-old son, Ms Chun is still adjusting to suddenly taking care of a teenager, but recommends it to anyone who has the space and time.
“I was a teenager a very long time ago, I forgot what it is like, so there are some challenging moments but I have support from Bayside and I am learning along the way,” she said.
“He is very outgoing and has a great personality and it has been great for my son to have a friend.”
Bayside International student coordinator Shelby Johnson said the international program has been going strong for several years, currently with 30 students in the program.
“We will probably have 40 students in the program by the end of the year,” she said.
With students from a wide range of countries including Vietnam, China, Ukraine, Thailand and the Philippines, students are required to study English before beginning the program.
“It is a great cultural experience of studying in another country to improve their language skills while also acting as a pathway to an Australian University,” Ms Johnson said.
Ms Johnson said duration can be a short stay up to a few weeks or a long stay for up to three years.
Details: 0429 048 896
Jennifer Pittorino
