Exchange of more than language

The group thoroughly enjoyed the visit and during their stay with host families were able to get a valuable insight into the German culture and way of life.

The students enjoyed trips to Ravensburg, the famous home of the puzzle and nearby Bregenz, a stunning Austrian town, home to the famous ‘Seebühne’ (open air opera stage on the lake). The Seebühne is famous for its summer production, and this year the group were thrilled to see the stage beautifully set up for Mozart’s Zauberflöte.

Katja Welton, who co-ordinated the trip, said: “The students had a fantastic time and really appreciated being able to practice their German. The educational trip was a great experience and we are hugely grateful to our hosts for their kind hospitality.”

Many of the group felt the highlight of the trip was a visit to Neuschwanstein. The long climb up the mountain was certainly worth it, as the students were able to see an amazing view of this incredible castle.

Collyer’s Vice Principal, Steve Nicholls, concluded: “The exchange has become a fantastic part of the German course at Collyer’s as it offers both the English and German students the chance to improve their spoken German and English, whilst experiencing one another’s culture and making life-long friends.

“The exchange is an important part of learning German for the Collyer’s students and I’m delighted that they have thoroughly enjoyed their visit. Katja has done a superb job organising such a valuable learning experience and our students were a credit to Collyer’s.”

Pictured are English and German students with their teachers at the Neuschwanstein castle.

Report and picture contributed by Collyer’s.