Hans Price students get a taste of the far east

Twenty students from Weston-super-Mare’s Hans Price Academy have enjoyed a cultural adventure in Japan as part of their successful twinning relationship with a school in the Far East.

This international cultural and educational exchange saw students engage with their partner school by delivering English lessons and learning about Japanese culture. The visit also included a packed itinerary of cultural exploration in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Twenty students from Years 10 and 11, accompanied by school staff, embarked on an exciting 10-day visit to Shinagawa Shouei Junior High School in Tokyo. This visit marked the third trip in a new partnership between the two schools, designed to offer students a unique exchange of knowledge and experiences.

As part of the programme, HPA students fundraised for their itinerary. The dedication of them all allowed for a packed itinerary including a Samurai masterclass, chopstick-making workshop, and a Disney visit, as well as a two-day trip to Kyoto via bullet train.

The trip to Japan was not only educational but also filled with opportunities for sightseeing and cultural immersion.

Sian Angell, Raising Standards Leader at Hans Price Academy and trip lead, said: “The visit to Shinagawa Shouei Jr High School was an incredible opportunity for our students to expand their horizons.

“I am confident this cohort of students will continue to build connections abroad and look to study in Japan in the future. We could not be more proud of the work they put in to making the trip a huge success”

“By teaching English to Japanese students and learning about Japanese traditions, our students not only developed their language skills but also built lasting friendships and gained valuable insights into a different culture.”

The successful exchange program aims to continue strengthening ties between the two schools, providing students with memorable learning experiences and fostering global understanding.