A school in North Somerset hosted a group of German exchange students and helped form “friendships for a lifetime”.  

Clevedon School, which has done a number of exchanges with students from China, France, Spain, Italy, and America, hosted students from Albertus-Magnus Gymnasium in Ettlingen, Germany. 

“This week has been incredible,” said one exchange participant. “We learned so much about each other’s schools and cultures, but also how friendships can grow despite language barriers.” 

Over the course of five days, 11 Clevedon students hosted their German counterparts and participated in activities designed to build bonds and celebrate cultural exchange. 

Students made scones, shared cream teas, engaged in team-building workshops, logo designing and presentations, but their packed schedule also had time for a graffiti tour of Bristol. 

“Friendship for a lifetime was created over the past week,” said Ivy, a Year 12 Clevedon School student, after bidding an emotional farewell to her exchange counterpart.  

The students put their creativity and enthusiasm to the test by brainstorming ways to strengthen ties between Clevedon and Ettlingen.  

Their ideas included pen pal schemes, joint events, and virtual exchanges via Zoom, demonstrating the lasting impact this partnership could have on both communities. 

Assistant Head of Sixth Form Mrs Camille Abrahams, who led the exchange, said, “It’s amazing to see how projects like this encourage openness, foster community spirit, and create opportunities for students to share experiences while embracing change.”