Exploring Brisbane Ekka with BROWNS’ Junior Holiday Program
As we wrap up the final week of our 5-week Junior Holiday Program in Brisbane, we reflect on the amazing experiences and memories created. Week 5 was filled with engaging lessons, exciting activities, and opportunities for our students to immerse themselves in Australian culture. From exploring local food and traditions to celebrating a student’s birthday and visiting the iconic Australia Zoo, it was a week that truly showcased the spirit of adventure and learning. Here’s a recap of all the fun and educational moments from our last week together.
Monday, 12th August 2024
On Monday, we talked about food, exploring the different types and forms of food that exist. The focus was on vocabulary; we discussed Australian food as well as food from the students’ countries. The students debated what would be considered healthy and unhealthy, and they wrote and created a restaurant in groups. Each group designed a menu based on the theme of their restaurant.
In the afternoon, students were invited to make their own cupcakes, decorate them, and create artistic designs, giving them as gifts to their classmates. It was also the birthday of one of the students, who had ‘Happy Birthday’ sung to her during the cupcake decoration.
Tuesday, 13th August 2024
The Royal Queensland Show (Ekka) is Queensland’s largest and most loved annual event which the students got to experience on Tuesday. There were animals everywhere, where children could walk, see, and touch them. In addition, the event had food stands of all kinds, with one of the most famous being strawberry ice cream. The students were able to have lunch together and enjoy the day with their classmates. For those who were not so keen on animals, there were rides and show bags, which are traditional at the festival. We had a great day at the Brisbane Ekka and, in the afternoon, when we returned, we took the bus back to school.
Wednesday, 14th August 2024
Brisbane Ekka Public Holiday
Thursday, 15th August 2024
In the morning, we studied hobbies and free time. We talked about the expression ‘freebies’, and the students were able to express their ideas and share what their hobbies are and what they prefer to do in their free time. The students discussed in groups the different ways to enjoy their free time and played board games that encouraged them to practise vocabulary.
On Thursday afternoon, we went indoor climbing. The students were very excited about this activity in West End, which included not only climbing but also group and pair activities, encouraging teamwork. During the break, the students played basketball and had fun all afternoon.
Friday, 16th August 2024
Friday was dedicated to talking about Australian animals. The students began by explaining which animals in their countries are poisonous and dangerous to humans. We then talked about the Australian figure Steve Irwin, the crocodile hunter and creator of Australia Zoo, a symbol known worldwide for his work in wildlife conservation. We watched part of Steve Irwin’s biography, and the students were able to write and research about his life. In the second half of the morning, the students each took a flash card with the name and image of an Australian animal. They researched, wrote about, and drew the animal. At the end, we created a mural where the students were able to learn more about Australian animals and share their knowledge with their classmates.
In the afternoon, we had a class party. Students enjoyed traditional Australian snacks and listened to pop music from the 2000s and 2010s. They received their certificates, took group photos, signed their certificates, and wrote messages to their friends.
Saturday, 17th August 2024
Saturday was dedicated to a trip to Australia Zoo, where students were able to get up close and personal with Australian animals, take photos with them, and learn more about them. In addition to the traditional zoo experience, Australia Zoo offers memorable and iconic presentations, one of which features crocodiles, local animals from Queensland. The students had lunch and bought souvenirs. One of the highlights was the Crocoseum, with presentations featuring birds and crocodiles.
As our Junior Holiday Program comes to an end, we are filled with pride and joy for all that our students have achieved. Over the past five weeks, they have not only improved their English skills but also made lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. We hope this experience has inspired them to continue exploring new cultures and languages. We look forward to welcoming them back to BROWNS in the future, whether for further studies or just to say hello. Until then, we wish them all the best on their journeys ahead.
Since 2003, BROWNS English Language School has delivered world-class English Language training to international students from around the world. More than 35,000 students from 102 nationalities have completed a BROWNS program, making BROWNS one of the leading private ELICOS providers in Australia for adults and young learners.
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BROWNS English Language School Pty Ltd trading as BROWNS English Language School and BROWNS Professional | CRICOS Provider Number: 02663M | ABN: 31 111 453 831 | RTO Code: 31998 | Junior Holiday Program in Australia | Brisbane Ekka | English in Australia | English for kids | Study English in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Melbourne