We first learned of the opportunity to have an exchange student earlier this year by my daughter's French teacher. We learnt they speak French in the SW region of Switzerland. German or Italian everywhere else. It is a reciprocal arrangement. My daughter will stay there for 9 weeks later in the year.
We had to fill out an application form that was quite detailed, and hope that a match could be secured. Once the match was made, we read the information, asked some questions via email, and then confirmed we were happy with the placement.
An information evening was held with a panel of government organisers, past exchange students, and chaperones. A deposit of $500, insurance papers, and passport details were submitted on the night.
A distinctive exchange polo shirt for the group has been ordered for easy recognition on their flight to Europe later in the year.
These are the things I have arranged so far:
- Cleaning out the garage to convert into our guest room. (SEE PIC ABOVE) THINGS TO CLEAR OUT AND ORGANISE
- Sell unused items at a garage sale. Bye bye baby goods!
- Hanging curtains over the garage door to prevent draught and to brighten the room.
- Block garage door space with foam.
- Allocating the bedding
- Allocating storage, draws, clothes hanging set-up, bin, laundry hamper, towels, bedside lamp, heater, small TV, power board, mirror and vanity area to be housed in the laundry.
- Designing a brochure of places to visit while she is here, that was emailed ahead of time.
- Emailed the Swiss family and gave details and expectations of the visit.
- Written and posted a letter to the local English speaking "Bishop" of the Church we belong to for information of members in the local area.
The last thing I would like to do is borrow a guitar, as she has diverse musical talents.
We are to treat her as one of our own.
She will go to school with my daughter and participate in her selected subjects.
She will wear the school uniform that we need to purchase from the 2nd hand shop.
It is all rapidly approaching. Only 4 weeks to go!
