Origami a hit with Emmaus College students: Photos

Sixteen Japanese exchange students led the paper folding lesson, teaching the students how to make cups, hearts, collars and penguins.

It was just one of the activities the Japanese students, from Kisarazu Sogo High School just outside of Tokyo, participated in during their week at the school.

They also had daily English lessons, attended classes with their Emmaus College student buddies, learnt about Aboriginal culture and participated in sporting events.

Among all of that they also found time to do some sightseeing and spend time with their host families.

Fifteen-year-old Arisa Ikeda said she was loving her first trip to Australia, especially being with the Emmaus College students.

She said she learnt about origami as a child and is was good to be able to teach the students at Emmaus about it.

"I am having a lot of fun here, everyone is very friendly," Arisa said.

"I have learnt how to throw a boomerang and I have listened to a didgeridoo, walked on the beach and gone bird watching as well."

Emmaus College student welfare assistant principal Liesl Profke said the school benefited greatly from having the exchange students visit.

"It allows the students at Emmaus College to experience a taste of Japanese culture and for our visitors to experience the wonderful hospitality and welcome that Emmaus College is known for in the local community," she said.

"Our students love having them at school and many keep in touch with them after they have returned to Japan."

Year 3 student Amelia Umstad said she had fun learning how to make a dog and a rabbit in the origami lesson.

"I hadn't done it before but the Japanese students were good teachers" she said.

"It's great to learn something new."