Purpose and Benefits of the Dovetail Programme

Kristin Students

The purpose of our exchange programme is to provide our students with opportunities to:

* experience other cultures and lifestyles
* benefit from fascinating and unique learning and ways of thinking
* develop independence and self confidence
* become flexible and outward looking
* establish life long friendships
* strengthen their identity as New Zealanders

Visiting Exchange Students

Another key purpose is to provide our overseas partner students with the opportunities to:

* experience friendly kiwi hospitality
* stay in a tolerant multi - cultural society
* enjoy New Zealand's unique physical environment
* view New Zealand as a creative and innovative country
* be challenged on established thinking
* be welcomed and cared for in a progressive and dynamic school
* observe first hand the excellence of New Zealand's educational system
* become future advocates for New Zealand and loyal alumni for Kristin
 

What is Dovetail Experience Like?

Kristin Exchange Student - personal experience

When offered the chance to spend six weeks in Germany, I initially thought that it wasn't for me. Then, I thought about all the things that I could experience. I had never travelled to Europe, never stayed with a foreign family and never had the chance to speak my foreign language - the opportunity could be fun. I am glad I listened to those who convinced me to go, it was the experience of a lifetime and one that I will never forget.

Visiting Student - personal experience

These past 5 weeks have given me the opportunity to learn about the lifestyles of the kiwis living on the other side of the world. Throughout my time here in NZ and at Kristin I have met many new and amazing people;who have made this experience an unforgettable one. I know that I'm very lucky to have met many people whose friendships I will cherish forever. The biggest changes for me have been the school environment. From being at The York School all my life, this has been really different. Although camp was a huge highlight, everything has been outstanding, and I thank everyone who has made these past few weeks the greatest.

Host Parent Experience

As an exchange host parent, I heartily endorse the benefits that come to those who participate in such an experience. We were hosts to a delightful guest from overseas who was always keen to participate in the activities that we had arranged. It was expected that we would provide unique New Zealand experiences for the exchange buddies. As a bonus, my family and I had the opportunity to better get to know the other Kristin host families and we have forged friendships that will endure long after the travelling is done.

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