Six Reasons to Host Setagaya Students this Summer

This summer, Setagaya Gakuen School (SGS) is planning to once again send students to visit Glenlyon Norfolk School. Since 1986, GNS has successfully hosted more than 4000 students from SGS. The most valuable and significant aspect of the program has been the homestay experience. 

Hosting a Japanese student can be an enriching experience for both the host family and the student. Not only does it allow you to learn about contemporary Japanese culture, but you also have the chance to make a positive impact on a young person’s life. SGS highly values the program and has made it an integral feature of its academic curriculum. Mr. Yamamoto, the current headmaster of SGS, came to GNS as a young student and participated in the program. He found it a formative experience and would love nothing more than to see the program continue and flourish.

Here are six reasons to host a Japanese student from Setagaya Gakuen School:

1. Build Lasting Connections
   Hosting a Japanese student provides a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. Hosts learn about Japanese culture, customs and traditions while sharing their own culture and way of life with their guest. This exchange of knowledge and ideas can help build bridges between different cultures and create lasting friendships. Often students stay in touch with the host family after returning to Japan.
2. Personal Growth
   Hosting a Japanese student can lead to personal growth for both the host family and the student. Stepping outside your comfort zone and opening your home to a student helps develop new skills and perspectives that can be applied in other areas of your life.
3. Enhanced Understanding of Japanese Culture
   Hosting a Japanese student can provide a deeper understanding of Japanese culture. You will learn about the nuances of Japanese society and customs, and gain insight into what life is like for young people in Japan. You will have the chance to learn more about Japanese food, music history, politics, pop culture, current events and various cultural activities.
4. A New View of Canadian Education
   Hosting a Japanese student can provide insight into the differences in education systems between Canada and Japan. The student can share their experiences, which can help the host family better understand the challenges and benefits of the Japanese education system.
5. Impact on a Young Person’s Life
   Hosting a Japanese student allows you to make a positive impact on the life and community of a young person. By providing a safe and welcoming environment, you can help your guest feel at home and build their confidence and independence. This experience can be life-changing for the student and can help them develop skills and perspectives that can benefit them for years to come.
6. FUN!
   For over 30 years, the hosting experience for both the SGS students and the GNS community has been overwhelmingly positive. The most common response from both is to describe the amount of fun everyone had. So many people have reflected that they did not realize how entertaining some of the mundane daily activities like grocery shopping can be!

Whether you are interested in cultural exchange, language practice, personal growth, or simply making a positive impact on a young person’s life, hosting a Japanese student can provide a unique and enriching opportunity. By opening your homes and hearts, you can help build bridges between cultures and promote understanding and respect for the diverse world in which we live, work and play.

If you’re interested, please complete the application form or email homestay@mygns.ca at your earliest convenience. Host families will be reimbursed $65 per student per night. 
For more information, please contact Ms. Hitomi Harama at homestay@mygns.ca or Mr. Lance Pimlott at lpimlott@mygns.ca.