International education
At Mitcham Girls High School, our International Students are valued members of our school community. MGHS work directly with South Australian Government Schools (SAGS), a department that has been providing study abroad experiences to international students since 1989. With over 100 schools accredited to deliver the International Student Program, SAGS are able to offer a range of short and long term study programs. Mitcham Girls High School happily welcome international students from around the world, and support them throughout their educational journey in South Australia.
Mitcham Girls High School currently offer the following programs:
High School (Graduate) Program (HSP)
The High School, or Graduate, Program is a course program for international students who enroll in a South Australian Government School with the intention of graduating to complete the SACE.
This longer-term program provides the opportunity to pursue individual academic interests and ambitions, gain a world class education and graduate with the South Australian Certificate of Education. Students can commence studies at the beginning of any school term from Year 7 to Year 12.
To enter directly into Year 12, students need to have successfully completed Year 11 equivalent in their home country and provide evidence of their English proficiency if coming from a non-English speaking country, or IELTS 5.5 or equivalent.
- The minimum study time for HSP’s is one year, with a maximum of 5 years pending program and visa extension.
- The minimum age for enrolment in the HSP program is 12 years old.
- These students are usually, but not always, on a 500o-class visa grant.
- They are assessed as local students (see relevant section for details).
Note: Many HSP students are graduates of the ISEC program (see relevant section below).
Study Abroad Program (SAP)
The Study Abroad Program is a course program for international students who enroll in a South Australian Government School with the intention of gaining an in-depth cross-cultural experience.
This short-term study and cultural experience program provides the opportunity to try new subjects, enroll in a special interest program and participate in exciting school-based activities such as drama productions, music bands, weekend sports and activities. Students can commence studies at the beginning of any school term from Year 7 to Year 12.
- Minimum study time for SAPs is 5 weeks, with a maximum of one year.
- The minimum age for enrolment in the SAP program is 12 years old.
- These students are usually, but not always, on a 600-class visa grant.
- These students are not formally assessed (yet academic transcripts can be provided).
Intensive Secondary English Program (ISEC)
The Intensive Secondary English Course (ISEC) is a program for international students who enroll in a South Australian Government School with the intention of completing long-term study, but who require tailored English learning support before transitioning to mainstream Australian classes.
The ISEC program at MGHS is offered in a learning environment that encourages students’ language skills, collaboration/social skills and intercultural perspectives, as preparation for entering mainstream classes. The ISEC program is specially designed to assist in developing international students’ English proficiency, knowledge and familiarisation of Australian lifestyle/culture, and acclimatisation to the Australian schooling system.
This interim study program provides specially designed and delivered curriculum support to students who have a limited English level upon arriving in Australia.
- The minimum study time for ISEC is 2 terms
- ISEC is available for students in years 7-10
- These students are usually, but not always, on a 500o-class visa grant.
Study Tours
A Study Tour is a short-term visit, designed for small-medium groups of international students, 12 years of age and above. Students are either from the same school or are participating in a program developed by an overseas governing body, travel agent or education agent.
Study Tours can also have a specific focus or theme, such as STEM or Sport. Each program is customised to suit the needs of the group. Duration of Study Tours is usually 10 to 14 days
A typical study tour generally includes the following:
- Specialised sessions for the participating students
- Integration in school activities
- Homestay accommodation
- Tourism excursions
For more information, please contact South Australian Government Schools, also known locally as IES, via their website. Information is available in several languages, by selecting the ‘Languages’ menu at the top.
Contact Number
+61 8 8226 3402
Website
https://www.internationalstudents.sa.edu.au/en/
CRICOS Provider Number
00018A
Host an International student
In Term 3 2025, Mitcham Girls High School will welcome a group of Year 7 Korean students arriving for two weeks. This is a wonderful chance to immerse your family in a different culture, form lasting connections, and make a positive impact.
By opening your home to an international student, you’ll not only share your lifestyle and traditions but also gain a unique perspective on their culture. Plus, monetary compensation is provided as a thank you for your participation.
KEY INFO:
- What: Chungcheong Buk-do Study Tour
- Who: x20 Year 7 South Korean students + hosts from any year level
- When: Weeks 2/3, Term 3 (Sunday, 27th July – Saturday, 9th August 2025)
- Where: Mitcham Girls High School + various excursion venues around SA
- Why: Cultural exchange and creation of global connections
Homestay hosts require the following:
- an open heart and hospitable home
- RRHAN-EC (2 hr online training course) for ONE adult in the home
- Working with Children Check (can be initiated by the school) for ALL adults in the home
- a bedroom to provide the student
- a home accreditation (to be completed by our International Ed team)
If you have any further questions regarding enrolment, please contact: dl.0903.enrolments@schools.sa.edu.au or
