Global Exchange Program

Purpose

The Global Exchange Program at Havergal provides students with an immersive, cross-cultural experience aimed at fostering global competencies such as communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and cultural awareness. The program encourages students to become global citizens by developing skills to navigate diverse perspectives, adapt to new environments, and build meaningful relationships across cultures. By participating, students are empowered to grow personally and academically, cultivating a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Outcomes

Personal Growth and Global Competencies: Participants will develop a range of global competencies, including:

Adaptability: Becoming more flexible and resilient when faced with new challenges and environments.
Critical Thinking: Developing the ability to reflect on and analyze different cultural contexts and perspectives.
Cultural Awareness: Gaining deeper insights into diverse cultures and ways of life.
Communication and Collaboration: Enhancing skills to effectively communicate and work with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Challenges

Emotional & Organizational Demands: The exchange process is demanding, requiring students to balance academic rigor, personal reflection, and the challenges of adapting to a new cultural environment. Students must be prepared to handle these complexities independently and be open to growth.

Managing Relationships: A key emphasis is on fostering growth through the development of strong relationships with host families and exchange partners. It encourages students to practice empathy, cultural sensitivity, and effective problem-solving as they navigate interpersonal challenges, which are foundational to enriching their overall exchange experience.

Opportunities

Cultural Immersion: Students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a new culture, fostering a deeper understanding of global issues, diverse perspectives, and international systems. This experience helps develop cultural literacy and enhances students’ ability to engage with different viewpoints.

Skill Development: By navigating the complexities of an international exchange, students will develop a range of global competencies such as collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving. These skills are crucial for future success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Building Global Networks: Students build lasting connections with peers and communities around the world. These international relationships provide opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and lifelong learning.

Applications

The nature of our program requires us to have a mandatory, in person Introduction to the Global Exchange Program Session for families who are interested in applying to the exchange program for the upcoming school year. The student who is interested in participating and one parent are required to attend this meeting to be considered for the program.

This session will provide a comprehensive overview of the application process, exchange locations, the commitment level we require from families, as well as the benefits of participating in this life-changing program.

The Forum for Change is always open and available to inquiries, so please don't hesitate to contact us with questions.

WHEN: Applications will open in the Winter and students and families will be notified through The Weekly, Day School Announcements as well as through Prayers announcements.

HOW: Applications consist of a written portion, as well as an in-person interview. Applicants will also be screened by their teachers for academic readiness; our Guidance Counsellors of social emotional and wellbeing readiness.

GRADE 8 EXCHANGE

Grade 8 students exchange with our trusted partner schools in Edinburgh, Scotland for two weeks. These two weeks are typically the week before and the first week of our March Break. Applications open in the Winter of Grade 7 because some of our exchange partners will be coming in the Fall of their Grade 8 year.

Students' families will also host their child's exchange partner for two weeks. The timing depends upon the student partner's school schedule. It falls between October and April.

GRADE 10 EXCHANGE

Grade 10 students exchange with our trusted partners from many different countries, including Germany, Australia, New Zealand, France and more. The exchange lasts for four weeks and typically these are co-seated with the March Break.

Students' families will also host their child's exchange partner for four weeks. The timing depends upon the student partner's school schedule. It falls between October and April.

FAQ

What is the application process?
Students apply to the program as a whole, not to a specific country or school. Preferences are considered, but placements are based on finding the best match for each student’s personal growth, maturity, and the logistical needs of the program.

Can I choose my country or school?
While we take student preferences into account, we cannot guarantee a specific school or country. Placements are designed to maximize the fit between the student’s global competencies and the host community’s needs, which may vary depending on availability and other factors.

What happens if my placement changes?
Flexibility is essential. Changes to aspects of the exchange (such as school, host family, dates) may occur due to unforeseen circumstances, such as emergencies. These changes are made at the discretion of Havergal’s Global Exchange Program to ensure a successful experience for both the student and the host community.

What do students need to succeed in the program?
Successful exchange students are expected to demonstrate open-mindedness, self-reliance, and emotional resilience. They should be willing to engage in critical reflection and adapt to new experiences while maintaining a positive attitude. A strong sense of responsibility for managing relationships with the host family and guest partner is also essential.

When will I find out who my exchange partner is?
Exchange partners will be announced at various times throughout the school year. This is dependent on school as their exchange program timelines may differ from ours. We ask that students and families have patience and check their email frequently for any updates from the exchange coordinator.

Are there meetings I need to attend to be a part of the exchange?
There is a mandatory information session (Jan 15th 6-7:30pm in the BRH) before students are accepted into the program – one parent and the student interested in applying must attend. Once students are accepted into the program they are required to attend 2 hosting workshops before their exchange partner arrives in Canada and 3 abroad workshops before leaving for their exchange. These meeting dates and times will be communicated by the exchange coordinator.

How long is the exchange?
The exchange program for Grade 8 students is a 4 weeks long commitment (2 of those weeks are hosting 2 of those weeks are our HC students abroad). The exchange program for Grade 10 students is an 8 weeks long commitment (4 of those weeks are hosting 4 of those weeks are our HC students abroad).

Am I expected to complete homework when I am abroad?
Havergal students are expected to stay on top of their schoolwork while traveling abroad. To minimize the amount of missed class time, student travel is scheduled to overlap with our March Break. While away, students will have designated time to focus on their Havergal coursework and are expected to actively participate in the classes they are placed in during their trip.

Exchange Celebration Luncheon

The Exchange Celebration Luncheon is an event that recognizes the achievements of exchange students. During the luncheon, exchange pins and certificates are presented. The event celebrates the significance of the exchange program and offers congratulations to all participants.

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