Immersions & Global Experiences

In our interconnected world, it is crucial for our students to develop global and cultural awareness.

Immersions

The Marist Immersion Program provides an opportunity to stand in solidarity with Marist communities across the Star of the Sea, East Asia and South Asia provinces. During this two week adventure for Year 11 students, travelling groups immerse themselves in culture and lifestyle, visiting schools and organisations, and interacting with many of the local children and their families.

Our presence in the Marist schools and communities further builds upon the strong relationships already developed; The money raised through fundraising initiatives supports the pastoral and educational programs offered in the schools and nearby organisations; and the experience aims to develop grateful, compassionate and socially just young adults, hopefully inspiring them to continue this work after graduation.

FIJI IMMERSION

The Fiji Immersion visits two Marist communities; Marist Suva and Marist Lomeri, with the group spending the majority of their time at school with ‘buddies’. Students encounter a very different classroom environment, both in terms of classroom numbers, structure and learning styles. They also take on the role of the teacher, sharing knowledge about life in Australia, schooling at Sacred Heart College and their own families.

PHILIPPINES IMMERSION

The Philippines Immersion is based in the Marist Asia Pacific Centre in Manilla, and the group visits a number of local schools, organisations and charity based groups. The highlights include spending time at Magsaysay Memorial College, the Kuya Centre for Street Children, and PREDA, an organisation that provides a safe space and education for abused children.

INDIA IMMERSION

The India Immersions explores the cities of Chennai and Trichy. In Chennai, students experience cultural immersion through visits to community groups including Mithra and a Babies’ Home. In Trichy, students spend time with the Marist Brothers and visit a number of local schools and charity organisations.

SOLOMON ISLANDS IMMERSION

This immersion was a new offering in 2025, and our first visit to the Solomon Islands was very successful. The group spends the majority of its time at St Joseph’s College, Tenaru, a Marist school with approximately 800 students (all boarders) and 30 staff. Spending time in class and building friendships with our ‘buddies’ provides an eye-opening comparison to our own experience of education, and a wonderful insight into the culture and simplicity of life in the Pacific Islands.

SRI LANKA IMMERSION

This immersion returned in 2026, offering students a rich opportunity to experience the culture and community of Sri Lanka. The group spends time with children living in a children’s home, attends a free evening tuition centre operated by the Marist Brothers in Negombo, and connects with children from local fishing communities. Students also visit Kalpitiya, build friendships with students from Maris Stella College Negombo and Maris Stella College Thimbirigaskatuwa, and explore some of Sri Lanka’s significant cultural and natural sites. These experiences provide meaningful insight into local life, education and community while encouraging connection, service and cultural understanding.

Being part of the Fiji immersion was so much more than just a school trip. It allowed me to see life through a new lens and appreciate things I once took for granted. The connections I formed with both my group and the Fijian community feel like a second family, and the experience will stay with me forever.

Tia, Fiji Immersion
The immersion experience was a life changing opportunity that allowed me to experience what it is like to live in a culture different to my own. I built new connections with peers that I will hold onto for the rest of my life. Immersion also allowed me to understand how Marcellin Champagnet connects us with Marist schools all around the world, not just Australia.

Harvey, India Immersion
The immersion program was an amazing and eye opening experience that allowed me to face challenges I would not have overcome if not for the program. I was able to achieve lifelong bonds with the classmates and teachers in my group as well as make connections with the people we met overseas. I loved being able to see how other people in the world live and it impacted my appreciation of the little things and helped me be more grateful.

Hayley, Fiji Immersion

Global experiences

The College offers the opportunity for students to participate in exchanges and study tours that enable students to connect meaningfully with life beyond the College, fostering the broader perspective and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Learning languages and participating in Study Tours allows our students to enhance their cultural awareness, communication skills, and personal growth. By stepping out of their comfort zones, students gain valuable experiences that promote personal development and a broad worldview.

Japan

The Japan Study Tour is a part of the established exchange program with the partnership school, Okayama Sozan High School, in Japan. The study tour has been conducted since 2012 and a partnership agreement between the schools commenced in May 2019. It is an annual exchange program; Sacred Heart students host Japanese students in March, and Sozan students host SHC students in September.

Italy

The Italian Study Tour offers students a unique opportunity to apply their classroom learning in real-world settings, creating authentic and immersive experiences. Participants deepen their intercultural understanding by engaging with Italian customs, cuisine, traditions, and history. The tour also allows students to develop critical and creative thinking, as well as personal and social skills, as they navigate cultural differences and demonstrate independence and initiative. Additionally, students explore the ethical beliefs and values of historical Italian societies, enhancing their appreciation of diverse perspectives.

HASS Study Tour

The European HASS Study Tour offers students a unique opportunity to experience their subjects in the real world and broaden their perspectives across France, Belgium, the Netherlands and Germany. Students will explore significant historical, cultural and geographical sites, developing a deeper understanding of the events, people and societies that have shaped modern Europe. Through visits to battlefields, museums, global businesses, and places of cultural significance, students will engage with genuine learning experiences. The tour also provides opportunities for students to develop intercultural understanding, critical and creative thinking, independence and personal responsibility as they experience different cultures, traditions and communities firsthand.