Year 9 Student Prepares for Belgium Exchange

Catholic College Sale Year 9 student, Sam Crouch, is preparing to embark on an exciting adventure later this year as part of a student exchange program with WEP (World Education Programme). Sam will spend several months living and studying in Belgium, immersing himself in the French language and culture.

French teacher, Ms Sophie Garner, caught up with Sam to hear more about his upcoming journey.

Why Belgium?

“Canada and France were also offered through the exchange program,” Sam explained. “Canada was the pricier and colder option, and I preferred Belgium because the Belgians are more relaxed than the French. I’ve also heard there’s a nicer atmosphere over there.”

What are you most looking forward to about your trip?

“I’m really excited about learning more about the culture and making lots of friends. I’ll be meeting people at school and learning in a different language, which will be really cool.”

How do you think living in a French-speaking country will help your French?

“I think it will be a bit of a shock at first, but it will help my French significantly—just from speaking it every day and being immersed in the culture and language.”

Is there a particular food, place, or experience you’re excited to try?

“Definitely the waffles and fries—they’re really good in Belgium! I’m also probably going to Disneyland in Paris, which is one of the experiences offered by WEP.”

How did you hear about this opportunity?

“I started doing some research back in January this year when I decided I wanted to do an exchange, and WEP was one of the top results.”

What do you hope to bring back to share with your classmates?

“Aside from improving my French, I hope to bring back a better knowledge of the world, more cultural awareness, and higher confidence.”

Sam’s exchange experience will no doubt be an incredible opportunity for personal growth and cultural learning. We wish him every success as he prepares for this adventure abroad.