IGS recently hosted its inaugural Science Exchange with Meikei High School, a leading science-focused school in Japan. Under the leadership of Liz Turner Head of Science, this innovative partnership took place from Sunday 23 to Thursday 27 November 2025.
Meikei High School, renowned as a centre of excellence in science education, sent approximately 20 students from Years 9 to 11 and three accompanying teachers to Sydney. Together with selected IGS students from Years 9 to 11, they undertook a collaborative scientific research project exploring the geology of the Blue Mountains and greater Sydney region, and examining how native flora regenerates after bushfire.
During their stay, students conducted fieldwork, collected data and analysed their findings in partnership with IGS students. Year 10 participants in the Tasmania Unearthed Science Route also presented insights from their Week 6 SAGE program as part of this meaningful scientific exchange.
Reflecting IGS’s commitment to global partnerships and hands-on, inquiry-based learning, this new collaboration connected students with real-world scientific investigation.
The Science Department also invited students learning Japanese at IGS to join the science excursions. During the long bus rides to the Blue Mountains and Bîplin, students from both schools sat together and used the time for language exchange, forming new friendships along the way.
