After repeated cancellations due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 47 third-year junior high school students completed their two-month study abroad program in New Zealand and returned to Japan at the beginning of April this year.

There were various levels of English ability amongst the students before leaving, but their smiling faces upon returning showed that they all had a fulfilling time. They experienced the multinational atmosphere of New Zealand through homestays and school life, and were able to break out of their shells and feel the joy of interacting with people and the importance of English as a tool.

They have now advanced to high school and were reunited with their Kumon friends at the recent opening ceremony. We hope that the precious experiences they obtained in New Zealand will help them in their future learning and better equip them to face challenges.