S2 Student International Exchanges

Global Connections: Student International Exchanges 2024

This spring, St George's S2 students embarked on transformative journeys to North America, experiencing different cultures, educational systems, and forming lifelong friendships. Here are the highlights from their travels and experiences.

Philadelphia: Germantown Friends School

Four of our students, included Alessandra and Honor, spent time at Germantown Friends School, where they were struck by the different approach to education—no uniforms and addressing teachers by their first names! Highlights included exploring New York City's shopping districts, visiting Amish country to sample their famous soft pretzels, touring Philadelphia's famous sights (including the Rocky statue), and attending the school's semi-formal event—a cherished American tradition.

"My time in Philadelphia was amazing, a life-changing experience... I have made lifelong friends and learnt lots about a different culture. I can highly recommend exchange." —Alessandra

Toronto: Branksome Hall, Havergal College & St Clement's School

Iconic Canadian Experiences

Our Toronto exchange students—Lily, Freida, Gracie, Sophie, Alice, Lottie, and Bonnie—shared several must-do Canadian experiences:

• CN Tower: Ascending one of the world's tallest buildings with breathtaking views

• Niagara Falls: Exploring behind the falls, visiting haunted houses and arcades

• Sporting events: Cheering for the Toronto Blue Jays baseball team and Marlies ice hockey matches

• Canadian cuisine: Trying "beavertails" (flat dough pastry with toppings) and Crumbl cookies

School Differences

Students noted the different educational styles:

• Combined "Integrated Studies" instead of separate History, Geography and English classes

• Sciences taught as one subject rather than separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics

• More relaxed rules around campus, with students allowed to leave for lunch

• The excitement of "Promposals"—elaborate public prom invitations, complete with performances

"By the end of the 2 weeks, I had made a new friend group! Everyone was so excited to meet us and was so welcoming." —Sophie

Texas: Trinity Valley School

Isla and Eve experienced the distinctive Texan culture at Trinity Valley School in Fort Worth. Their experiences included:

• Visiting the famous Fort Worth stockyards

• Sitting on a longhorn bull and watching rodeos

• Exploring San Antonio and The Alamo

• Participating in American Studies classes

• Flying robotic planes and rock climbing

• Adapting to the hot Texas climate while participating in track events

"Overall, this exchange has been something that I will forever remember... I have made lifelong memories, gained new friendships, and learned so much about Texas and a different way of life." —Isla

Lasting Impressions

Across all exchanges, our students highlighted:

• The incredible hospitality of host families

• The welcoming atmosphere in North American schools

• The thrill of experiencing different educational approaches

• The confidence gained from navigating new environments

• The formation of international friendships they hope will last a lifetime

Many described their experience as "once-in-a-lifetime" and would "100% recommend" the exchange programme to other St George's students.

We’ve had the privilege of hosting several students already this year and we look forward to receiving exchange visitors from St Clement’s School and Trinity Valley School soon. Our students are excited to show them Scottish culture and hospitality!