Northgate has a rich history of running a very successful Spanish exchange. Starting back in 1995, this year’s exchange was once again organised by Mr Everett, Head of Modern Foreign Languages and attended by Mrs O’Grady from the Sixth Form.
In March we welcomed students over from Spain, inviting them into typical Northgate lessons as well as going on trips to Norwich and Cambridge. In June it was the turn of Northgate’s Year 10s and students from Year 12 at Dereham Sixth Form College to return to Spain and meet up once again with their exchange families.
It was an opportunity to live with a Spanish family for a week, experience Spanish culture, lessons in school and visit a few tourist spots in the area. Students explored Zaragoza on foot and by bus and looked at the Roman, Islamic, Mudéjar and Renaissance cultural heritage. There was a trip to Loarre castle, learning about the origins of the kingdom of Aragón, the Pyrenees, as well as a trip to Barcelona.
Here is what some of our students had to say:
‘I can honestly say that the Spanish exchange was one of the greatest experiences of my life and I know that it will mean I can take my life in a different direction.’
‘I didn’t just have a great time living with a Spanish family for a week and exploring Zaragoza, I have made friends that I will hopefully keep forever and I am now confident that travelling will be a big part of my future.’
‘At first my exchange partner spoke Spanish and I spoke English, then we started mixing languages but it sorted itself out.’
‘I can’t believe the way the exchange gave so many insights into different aspects of Spain: language, life, school, history, geography and art. After just a week I feel as if I know so much about the country and there is so much more to learn.’
