Since the early 90s, the IGS Global Exchange has been a cornerstone of our immersive language learning program. But how did we, in our infancy, manage to organise and grow such a complex program?
This innovative program was the brainchild of IGS’s inaugural Director of Languages, Kathy Kerestes.
Inspired by the incredible success of the language camps, where students immersed themselves in their target language for up to three days, Kathy envisioned the magic that three months could achieve. Driven by this vision, she ventured out across Europe in a single summer, forging partnerships with schools in Aix-en-Provence, Florence, San Sebastian, and Salzgitter.
IGS Overseas Experience was born. Families agreed to host each other, a principle which endures to this day. In 1993, students from Years 9 and 10 set off on their inaugural exchange adventures, creating unforgettable memories and forging lifelong connections.
What began as an experience has grown into immersive cultural exchange. It welcomed a school in China into its fold in 2009. The program remains a highly anticipated and integral part of language learning at IGS, enriching students’ lives with cultural knowledge, confidence and lifelong, international friendships to grow explorers of the world into global citizens.
Were you on an early Overseas Exchange? Be part of the story. Share your memories with us at archives@igssyd.nsw.edu.au
References
International Grammar School 2014, Learning Journeys: 30 Years of International Grammar School.
International Grammar School 1993, School Magazine, 10th Anniversary Edition.
