A week of fun activities and amazing experiences at Lexis Byron Bay!
This week, our students took part in a series of fun and social activities that helped them get to know each other better and enjoy some classic Aussie experiences.
Why Join Social Activities While Learning English?
Taking part in social activities while learning English offers more than just fun—it actually helps students improve faster and feel more confident in their new environment.
- Real-Life Practice
Social events give students the chance to use English in natural, everyday conversations. Whether they’re asking for the ball in volleyball or chatting over snacks at a picnic, they’re using English in real situations, which helps build fluency and confidence.
- Making Friends
It can be hard to meet new people in a classroom alone. Activities like painting or barefoot bowling create an easy, relaxed way to connect with others, make friends, and feel part of a community.
- Learning Through Fun
When you’re relaxed and having a good time, you’re more open to learning. Speaking English during a game or group activity feels easier and more enjoyable than in formal settings—and that leads to better progress over time.
Portrait Painting
On April 9th, we started the week with a portrait painting activity. Students teamed up and painted each other’s portraits. It was a relaxed and fun way for everyone to express their creativity, share some laughs, and learn more about each other. Some of the results were surprisingly good and everyone had a great time.
What’s the Trend All About?
The idea behind the trend is simple:
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Pair up with someone and paint their portrait by hand (no tracing or apps allowed).
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The fun twist? The final results are revealed at the end—all at once.
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The reactions (both serious and hilarious) are often recorded and shared online, making it a perfect moment for TikTok or Instagram Reels.
It’s not about being a great artist—it’s about the process and the reactions. Whether the portraits turn out surprisingly good or completely silly, the fun is in the experience.
Barefoot Bowling
On April 11th, students got the chance to try barefoot bowling—an Australian classic.
What Is Barefoot Bowling?
Barefoot bowling is a casual, social version of lawn bowls, a traditional game popular in Australia. It’s often played at local bowls clubs—outdoor venues with large grass or synthetic greens. The “barefoot” part just means players take off their shoes and play in a more relaxed, informal way. It’s especially popular with younger people and groups looking for a fun social activity.
How Is It Played?
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Players use large, weighted balls called bowls. These bowls are not perfectly round—they are slightly curved on one side, which means they roll in an arc instead of a straight line.
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The goal is to roll your bowl as close as possible to a small white ball called the jack.
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Players take turns rolling their bowls toward the jack, trying to get closer than their opponent.
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After all the bowls are rolled, points are awarded based on how close your bowls are to the jack.
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The game can be played one-on-one or in teams, and usually lasts a few rounds.
The rules are simple, so it’s easy for beginners to pick up quickly. What makes it fun is the mix of skill, strategy, and luck—and of course, the laid-back vibe.
Lawn bowls has been part of Australian culture since the early 1900s and is especially popular among older Australians. But in the last 10–15 years, barefoot bowling has made the sport fun and accessible to younger people too.
Many bowls clubs have embraced this trend by offering:
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Live music or BBQs
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Affordable food and drinks
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Casual weekend events
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Group bookings for birthdays, student activities, or corporate events
It’s become a favorite weekend activity for friends to hang out, enjoy the sun, and try something uniquely Aussie.
Beach Volleyball
On April 16th, students headed to the main beach for a couple of hours of beach volleyball. The weather was great and the atmosphere was very friendly. Whether playing or just watching, everyone enjoyed being outside and active by the ocean.
Easter Picnic at the Beach
On April 17th, we also held an Easter picnic at the beach. Each student brought something to share with the group, and together we enjoyed a relaxed afternoon with good food and conversation. It was a great opportunity for students to meet new people and spend time together in a beautiful setting.
Overall, it was a great week full of variety, laughter, and new experiences. We’re looking forward to more activities like these!
Not studying with us yet, but would like to?
Lexis Byron Bay delivers academic excellence in arguably Australia’s most desirable study location where you can combine your studies with the great outdoors. Studying at Lexis Byron Bay is more than an experience, it’s a lifestyle! Lexis Byron offers an unrivalled afterschool activity calendar that includes surf lessons, cooking classes, artistic activities, afternoon escapes to surrounding hotspots and full-day weekend adventures. If you want more information on the courses that we offer, click here.
Learn English in Byron Bay. Lexis English students study General English, IELTS, FCE, CAE, and English plus Surfing in a friendly and professional school right in the heart of Byron Bay and only 15 minutes from the beach.
