Do you know how much it currently costs to raise your son or daughter in Australia? Most people are surprised at the actual cost involved, though, if parents are paying independent school fees, the surprise is less.

Apart from the advantages to parents of their child returning with added maturity, a more concerted approach to their studies, increased language fluency, a better understanding of human nature, the experience of having to make new friends (and coming to a realisation of what friendship is and how to value it), parents will find that sometimes the cost of educating their child overseas for one year is equal to or less than the cost in Australia.

The benefits of a year 13 program overseas (gap year) are well recognised by tertiary institutions in Australia as assisting to keep down the attrition rate - the drop out rate from first year university study. Our students return with a better idea of where they are heading, socially and academically, and many change the course they intended to study while still overseas.

Students and their Australian families love the idea of having an extended family to visit and to welcome into their homes in Australia. The host family is the most lasting contact made while on exchange, and the life long contacts set up during this stage of your child's life will prove invaluable as they launch themselves into their career.

Although we know that parents will dearly miss their child, the homecoming and the awakening knowledge that your child has matured to the point where they can become your friend, as well as your child, is welcomed by all.