Student Exchange to South Africa

Embarking on a high school exchange in South Africa presents an incredible opportunity for students to immerse themselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage while living with a warm and welcoming host family. From the captivating landscapes to the fascinating wildlife, South Africa offers a truly unique experience.

During the exchange, students will typically follow a school schedule that starts around 7:30 am and concludes between 2:00 pm and 3:00 pm. They also have the exciting opportunity to enhance their education through hands-on industry experiences in fields such as Office Administration and Management, Education, Healthcare and Social Work, or Nature Conservation. This unique combination of studying abroad and gaining practical work experience adds an enriching dimension to the exchange program in South Africa.

While living with their host family, Australian students can engage in a wide range of activities. They can explore the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa, from the picturesque coastline to the magnificent wildlife reserves. Excursions to iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, or the stunning Garden Route offer unforgettable experiences. Students may also participate in local celebrations, indulge in traditional South African cuisine, or engage in sports and recreational activities, such as soccer, cricket, or surfing.

Beyond the classroom, students can delve into South Africa’s history and cultural heritage. They can visit museums, historical sites, and cultural festivals, gaining insights into the country’s journey from apartheid to democracy. Immersed in a multicultural environment, Australian students will gain a broader perspective on global issues and develop valuable intercultural skills that will shape their personal and academic growth.

The high school experience in South Africa is an opportunity to embrace new perspectives, forge lasting connections, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Living with a host family, navigating the school system, and exploring the rich tapestry of South African culture combine to create a truly transformative educational adventure.

South African cuisine includes cookery practiced by Indigenous people of Africa such as the Sotho- and Nguni-speaking people, as well as styles that emerged from several waves of colonisation and immigration.

Some dishes you will find in South Africa are boerewors – a traditional South African sausage, and chakalaka and pap – a cold veggie dish usually served along with braai/shisa nyama, a South African BBQ.

The majority of people in South Africa use informal minibus taxis as their main mode of transport. They also have the regular bus that covers outers areas of the city.

Generally, the climate ranges from Mediterranean in the southwestern corner of South Africa to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the northeast.

A small area in the northwest has a desert climate. Most of the country has warm, sunny days and cool nights. South Africa’s mid-summer is in December and January, while mid-winter is in June and July – like Australia!