Byron Bay High School has a reciprocal exchange program with the two high schools in the Okutama region of Tokyo. Okutama is located in the Chichibu Tama-kai National Park at the north-western end of Metropolitan Tokyo.
It is renowned as one of the greenest areas of Greater Tokyo. The town is separated by mountains and the Tama River flows through the town centre from west to east.
Each year Byron Bay High School welcome students and teachers from Okutama High School.
2016 Okutama Visit Wrap-Up
In August 2016, 11 students and 3 teachers from Okutama High School visited Byron Bay High School. During their visit, the students attend English classes at Byron Bay High School each morning. Focusing on speaking skills, the students learnt how to talk about themselves, their families, their likes and dislikes and compare Japanese and Australian school life. They also learnt about the history of Byron Bay, the Bungalung people, Byron Bay Lighthouse and Australian animals.
After lunch each day, the students did a variety activities including Learn to Surf with Black Dog Surf School, a walk around Byron Bay Lighthouse and an Aboriginal Learning experience with infamous local Cockatoo Paul.
In the afternoons and on the weekend, the Byron Bay High School host families ensured that there was never a dull moment. The students went on bush walks, had BBQ parties, ate at local restaurants, went to the beach and the movies.
The exchange culminated in a Presentation Evening when the Japanese students performed dance, song and engaged Byron Bay High School host families in various games and activities. The evening was full of fun, laughter and cultural bonding.