Students at Weston-super-Mare’s Hans Price Academy have enjoyed a taste of the exotic Far East to cement a new twinning relationship with a school in Japan.
Twenty students from years 10 and 11 and staff from Hans Price Academy embarked on an exciting eight-day visit to Shinagawa Shouei Jr High School in Tokyo, Japan.
Their visit was the inaugural trip in a new partnership between the two schools which will offer students a unique exchange of knowledge and experiences.
The trip to Tokyo was not only an educational experience, but it also provided ample opportunities for sightseeing and cultural exploration. Among the many highlights, the group enjoyed a scenic Lake Ashi Cruise, delved into the historical wonders of Edo Wonderland, experienced the vibrant Tsukiji Market, explored the serene Asakusa Temple, and indulged in a picturesque Sumida River cruise.
Plans are already in place for a reciprocal visit, with a delegation from Shinagawa Shouei Jr High School scheduled for May.
Hans Price leaders secured the bulk of the money needed for the trip through a rigorous application process for Government funding.
However, the grant award was bolstered by GoFundMe sponsorships secured by HPA staff, a school talent show, and a number of bake sales and car washes in the months leading up to the trip.
Sian Angell, Raising Standards Leader at Hans Price and trip lead, said: “The trip served as an opportunity of a lifetime for these students, and we hope to see the impact with future generations to follow. To be able to provide an experience that we can already see has had a great impact on their global aspirations is something we are incredibly proud of. We are already very much looking forward to Shinagawa School’s first return visit in the spring.”
Year 10 pupil Jasmine Chapple said: “Personally, my involvement in the HPA Tokyo trip was one of the best experiences I think I will ever have the opportunity to take part in. We got to learn about so many amazing things, including the culture, the Japanese language and what it is like to live and study in Japan. We also got to try so many new foods which I will forever be thankful for. This is definitely an experience I will never forget.”
This international exchange not only broadened the horizons of the participating students but also strengthened the bonds of friendship and collaboration between Hans Price Academy and Shinagawa Shouei Jr High School.
