International Homestay Program
Hosting an international student can be a rewarding for both you and your family as well as the student themselves. Kirwan SHS offers the opportunity to share your life and home to provide wonderful memories and unique cultural experiences for an international student.
Kirwan is currently recruiting new families for our international program. Hosting an international student is a wonderful experience, enriches the lives of all involved and creates life-long friendships. Families also receive a fortnightly tax-free payment to cover the cost of hosting a student. In return, students must receive their own bedroom, access to the internet and all of their meals.
Each year the school welcomes students from around the world and we ask members of the Kirwan High community and other residents of Townsville, to consider joining our international program as a homestay family.
Cultural Experiences
Through their homestay, our International students embark on a number of cultural experiences that are unique to Australia. These experiences offer students the opportunity to experience Australian wildlife and environments.
In 2023, our International students participated in trips to Billabong Sanctuary to visit native wild life and had the opportunity to go snorkelling on Magnetic Island.
International Homestay Student Testimonials
“The trip to Maggie Island was amazing! However, the most outstanding experience was when we saw a sea turtle and a dolphin. It was great to have the opportunity to go snorkelling to see multiple fish species and to learn more about the history of the island. I love being at this school! We all got a warm welcome and it's nice to be a part of this kind and open minded community. I appreciate the support we got during our stay and the subjects we could choose were amazing."
- Jasmin from Germany
“The trip to Magnetic Island organized by Kirwan High was amazing. I really enjoyed spending time with the other international students, and the snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef. I really like Kirwan State High, first of all because of the wide selection in subjects and extra-curricular activities, giving students many opportunity in different fields, like sports, arts, sciences. I also enjoy the time I spend with my friends here, giving me a lot of memories that I will not forget."
- Ginerva from Italy