From A Student Perspective: Exchange
Lovett School, Atlanta, Georgia – United States
The Lovett School, founded in 1926 by Eva Edwards Lovett, is a private, coeducational, college-preparatory school in Atlanta, Georgia. Originally established as a small kindergarten, it has grown into a prestigious institution serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. Rooted in Christian values, Lovett emphasises academic excellence, character development, and a well-rounded education that includes arts, athletics, and community service.
Luca Alexander – Lovett School Exchange Student
The 2024 Lovett Exchange Program has been one of the best experiences of my high school journey so far. After hosting my exchange student, Parker, in Australia in April, I travelled to Atlanta, Georgia, to stay with his family for a month. We arrived in early November and stayed until the end of Cranbrook’s school year.
One of the highlights of the trip was watching American football games at the high school, college, and national levels. Another unforgettable experience was visiting the famous amusement park Six Flags, which truly humbled me after finally riding a rollercoaster bigger than the Luna Park Wild Mouse.
However, the best part of the trip was attending an American high school. Lovett looked just like something out of the movies—with long cafeteria tables, endless hallways, and, of course, yellow school buses.
Michaelhouse School, South Africa
Michaelhouse is a prestigious all-boys boarding school in Kwaulu-Natal, South Africa, founded in 1896. Known for its strong academic tradition, rich history, and emphasis on leadership, it fosters a culture of excellence, service, and camaraderie. Set in the Midlands, the school blends rigorous academics with a deep appreciation for sports, the arts, and outdoor pursuits. Michaelhouse has produced influential leaders in politics, business, and the arts, reinforcing its reputation as one of South Africa’s most respected educational institutions.
Angus Messiter – Michaelhouse Exchange Student (2024)
My experience in South Africa was nothing short of eye-opening and inspiring. My eight-week trip to Michaelhouse was filled with sightseeing, socialising, training, playing sports, and learning about the extraordinary country that is South Africa.
When I first arrived at the boarding house, all sorts of thoughts ran through my head, including plenty of nerves—it was my first time boarding, and I didn’t know anyone. However, my roommate, Kamva, along with my soon-to-be best mates—Matt, Michael, and Oliver—shook my hand, said hello, and made me feel welcome straight away.
Over the next eight weeks, I tried everything there was to try, including rugby off-season training, gym sessions, and water polo matches, all while experiencing life as a regular student. I also met exchange students from America, with whom I did many activities outside of school. We went on incredible trips, including swimming with sharks, ziplining, and a four-day adventure at Nambiti Game Reserve, where we saw lions, rhinos, elephants, buffalo, and cheetahs—and even found a waterfall to climb and slide down.
However, the experience wasn’t just about sightseeing. I also had the opportunity to learn about South Africa’s complex history by visiting the Mandela Capture Site and gaining insight into Apartheid. One of the most eye-opening experiences was visiting the inner-city markets in Durban, which made me realise just how fortunate we Australians truly are.
Overall, South Africa was an unforgettable experience, filled with lifelong friendships, breathtaking sights, and invaluable lessons. I am extremely grateful to Mr. Tsoukatos for making this incredible opportunity possible.
Northlands Exchange (2025)
The 2025 Northlands Exchange program welcomes six students from Argentina to Cranbrook, where they will immerse themselves in school life and Australian culture. Later this term, Cranbrook students will travel to Argentina for the same duration, experiencing life at Northlands School. This exchange fosters international friendships, cultural understanding, and academic collaboration. ¡Bienvenidos a Australia y que lo pasen genial!
For more information on exchange, please contact Nick Tsoukatos at ntsoukatos@cranbrook.nsw.edu.au.