On Sunday 27th May 2012, 10 students accompanied by Mr Kelly and Mrs Bruzon flew to our twin town Langen (near Frankfurt) for the return leg of the German Exchange. After a short flight, they were met at the airport by smiling faces and were whisked away to their host families. Most spent the evening enjoying the hot weather, although there was a lot of bonding through the PS3 and X Box!
On Monday, the group met up with another visiting school; Friesland School (Sandiacre) who had also hosted students from Langen last September. All were all treated to a day trip to Saalburg Roman Fort, where they were given a tour of how the Romans used to live – the girls were not too impressed with their make-up tips though – spider’s legs instead of mascara! They were then given a crash course on being a soldier with spear throwing and archery. After an interesting day, the students went back to their host families for further activities!
Another day, another trip – however this was going to be a long trip. Studnets had to meet at 6am! Once they arrived at the destination, ‘Bergwerk Merkers’ Salt Mine, they soon realised it was worth the early start. This was a real roller-coaster ride – through twists and turns at 30mph in our guide’s truck (although it felt like 80mph!), they were given full access to one of the biggest mine’s in Germany, including the underground concert hall. All were agreed that this was a great trip and were very happy to get a small sample to put on our chips!
Wednesday was ‘Film Day’ at the host school (Dreieichschule). The purpose of this day was to find out more about our twin town. In small groups, equipped with their mobile phones as cameras, the students made some informative and often very funny videos about various aspects of Langen, such as ‘how to make friends in Langen’, ‘how to be cool in Langen’, ‘being creative in Langen’ and ‘shopping in Langen’. The afternoon consisted of a scavenger hunt around the town ending with a treat in the ice-cream café. The students now know Langen like the back of their hands!
The following day the group had the chance to gain an insight into the daily life of a German school. Our students visited various lessons all in German (of course!). They were then invited to a speech given by the Mayor of Langen who welcomed us wholeheartedly to the area. A party was then thrown for the 3 schools, after which, Friesland departed for the UK.
As Friesland were on their way back to the UK and lessons were in full swing in Langen, the Trent students ventured back into Langen for some final souvenir shopping and one last ice cream! The afternoon and the following day were then spent with their host families who had organised trips to Frankfurt and other activities for them.
On Sunday a very tired but happy group of Trent students met at the airport to say goodbye to their host families. A few tears were shed as they waved goodbye to an incredible time in Germany. Our students were impeccably behaved and were excellent ambassadors for Trent College.
