The Principal’s Speech – Welcome Assembly, 28th September

Good afternoon.  It’s very nice to meet all of you.  I am Mr. Kondo, the principal of Okayama Sozan High School.  On behalf of everyone at Sozan, I would like to say a few words of welcome.

It is a great pleasure to have you all, the students and teachers of Sacred Heart College, at Sozan High School.

Over the next 6 days, you are going to attend classes and club activities at our school, and stay with our students and their families.  Through classes and school activities, you will have opportunities to experience firsthand aspects of traditional Japanese culture.  Additionally, our students are looking forward to taking you to a very good example of a traditional Japanese garden right here in Sozan’s own neighborhood.

Our school has been designated as a Super Global High School by the Japanese Ministry of Education for the last four years.  This program aims to foster globalized leaders who will be able to play active roles on the international stage.  I hope our students will make the most of this opportunity to improve their English communication skills.

Of course, I know that our visiting students are studying Japanese, so please feel free to try speaking to any of our students or teachers in Japanese. Also, do not hesitate to ask questions or for help at any time. During your time here, I hope you and our students understand each other and are able to develop long lasting friendships, regardless of language and culture.

Last but certainly not least, I would like to express our deepest gratitude to the teachers from Sacred Heart College for working with us to make this experience possible.  It is my wish to see students from both schools continue to learn and grow through this wonderful cultural exchange.

Now please go out and enjoy your time at Sozan!  Thank you.