Pupils from Kimbolton School took part in a memorable and enriching visit to Germany as part of the School’s inaugural German exchange programme, with highlights including time in both Hamburg and Berlin.
During their stay, pupils were fully immersed in German language and culture, attending lessons alongside their exchange partners and experiencing everyday life with their host families. The programme has combined education with exploration, offering a rich insight into both modern and historic Germany.
In Hamburg, pupils explored some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including St Michael’s Church, the Landungsbrücken, the Old Elbe Tunnel, and the striking Elbphilharmonie. A visit to the renowned Miniatur Wunderland also proved a particular highlight, alongside a day trip to the historic city of Lübeck.
The group travelled to Berlin, where they undertook an extensive walking tour of the capital, covering many of its most significant landmarks. Highlights included the Reichstag, where pupils experienced the spectacular views from Norman Foster’s glass dome, as well as visits to the Soviet War Memorial, the Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, and Checkpoint Charlie. Pupils also explored the site of the 1933 book burnings and spent time in Berlin’s museum district, deepening their understanding of the city’s complex and powerful history.
Adam Jessup, one of the group leaders, reflected on the experience:
“Berlin has been a real highlight. We have explored many of the city’s major landmarks, and the pupils have shown great enthusiasm and resilience throughout. The visit to the Reichstag was particularly memorable as the views from the dome were spectacular, and it was a fantastic opportunity for the pupils to engage with both the history and modern identity of Germany.”
Pupils spent their final days with their host families, further strengthening friendships and cultural understanding.
Mr Jessup also expressed his gratitude to parents for their support of the exchange:
“I would like to say a huge thank you to all parents for supporting this inaugural exchange programme. Hosting a visiting pupil last year was a significant commitment, and it has helped lay the foundations for what we hope will be a long-term partnership between our two schools. It has been wonderful to see the pupils build new friendships and develop their confidence throughout the experience.”
The exchange has already proven to be a valuable and rewarding opportunity, and Kimbolton School looks forward to developing the programme further in the years to come.
