About

Student Exchange

Every July, the Town of Stony Plain sends a student delegation to Shikaoi, Japan for two weeks to visit, travel and experience their local culture. The delegation will spend time touring museums, temples and shrines, participate in local festivals and activities and spend time at the local schools. While in Shikaoi, students will live with a host family and participate in family events, activities and traditions. It is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in expanding their worldview.

Want to go? Apply for next year!

Long Stay Volunteer Program

The Shikaoi Exchange Long Stay Volunteer Program was developed in 2015 as an adult program for Stony Plain residents. The program’s goal focuses on sharing the knowledge, skills and experiences that each unique participant brings with them. Immersed in the community of Shikaoi for up to 80 days, the program is an excellent way to further deepen the sister town relationship that was established in 1985.   

Since June 2019, the Town of Stony Plain has requested participants to complete a bi-weekly blog about the different experiences and adventures during their stay.

Participants are offered free accommodation at the S.S House, a housing facility located in the Town core that was built specifically for the Program. The Town of Shikaoi will also provide a travel grant that covers a portion of the participant’s travel expenses.

Volunteer activities include (but are not limited to) kindergarten and nursery school visits, participation at the English Conversation Circle and the hosting of pot-luck parties at S.S House.

Download the Application Package.