Our friends from Trier
We were very pleased to welcome at the end of October a group of pupils from the Auguste-Viktoria Grammar School in Trier. After a very successful trip to Gloucester's twin town Trier by members of the Sixth Form in March, it was now our turn to try to match the friendship and hospitality extended to us in Germany. The pupils had an opportunity to sample life in an English school and draw comparisons between the two systems. The long English school day, needless to say, was not a popular feature. Their contributions to discussions about nuclear energy in Germany and the interviews they conducted with our pupils were much appreciated.
The importance which Gloucester attaches to its link with Trier was most evident at the Civic Reception given by the Mayor where the Trier pupils were most warmly welcomed and given a talk on the history of Gloucester. A number of pupils donned the Mayor's regalia much to the amusement of the group and found it very becoming. A visit to Gloucester cathedral completed the day.
The main excursion was to Oxford and we were fortunate to have as a guide, Mr J Campbell from the High School, who was a former student of Trinity College. He was able to show us around Trinity and to explain a number of the customs associated with being a student at Oxford. A guided walk taking in the Bodleian Library, the Radcliffe Camera and Christchurch did not fail to make an impression. Furthermore we were blessed with a gloriously sunny autumn day.
Social activities are an important aspect of the exchange and help above all else to cement good relationships. A sports' afternoon, a visit to Megabowl and the cinema were all arranged for the pupils.
Without a doubt friendships were forged during this exchange, language skills developed and memories created. We are fortunate to have in the Auguste-Viktoria Grammar School such a commitment to the Exchange and desire to further develop relationships between the two schools.
Presentation to City Mayoress