Ten Canning Vale College students have returned home with new friends and more love for language after taking part in the school’s first Italy Study Tour since 2019.
The students spent the holidays immersed in Italian culture, staying with host families in the city of Carpi and attending classes at Liceo Fanti, before exploring some of Italy’s most iconic locations.
Head of Learning Area for Languages and EALD Esther Blood, who chaperoned the trip, said the tour was an important way to relaunch the school’s international language programs after Covid disruptions.
“There was always a plan to re-introduce Italy Study Tours to complement the school’s Specialist Languages Program,” Ms Blood said.
“This year’s trip provided the students with a chance to visit famous cities such as Milan, Florence, Lucca, Pisa, Verona and Venice, but also allowed students to build long-lasting relationships with a host family, attend an Italian high school and experience real Italy in the lovely city of Carpi.”
Students were selected through an application process in 2024 and committed to continuing their Italian studies this year. Many are part of the school’s Specialist Languages Program.
Ms Blood said daily life with host families was a highlight for many.
“The students loved spending time with their host families, trying new foods, doing normal family activities like playing cards, going for walks and listening to music,” she said. “Many students commented that the Italian families were so warm, open and welcoming.”
The experience has strengthened the group’s love for language and broadened their understanding of other cultures.
“All participants reported that they now have a more open mind and a greater appreciation of people of other cultures,” Ms Blood said. “Students have returned to school with increased enthusiasm for learning about Italian culture and language and a greater sense of confidence and independence.”
Year 10 student Shrutika Aravinthan said the trip had been unforgettable.
“I am so grateful I got the opportunity to experience Italy through the Study Tour,” she said. “I loved making new friends, staying with my host family and trying authentic Italian food. I’ll never forget the wonderful memories I made.”
Parent Tennille Rice said the opportunity meant the world to her son and it was “life-changing”.
“He not only immersed himself in the rich history of Italy but also embraced a new culture by staying with a host family and attending school,” she said. “It was a life-changing experience that will stay with him forever.”
Canning Vale College hopes to welcome students from Carpi to Perth in 2026, and also plans to offer Indonesian students a study tour opportunity that same year.
