Cultural Exchange with Christianeum School, Hamburg, Germany

Details of this exciting trip

This exchange programme will allow next year’s Lower Sixth students to experience life in Hamburg, Germany, while also welcoming German students into our school and homes. It is a fantastic opportunity for cultural enrichment, personal growth and building international friendships.

Key details of the exchange

• German students visit the UK: 26 September – 5 October 2025

• Kimbolton students visit Hamburg: 10 April – 19 April 2026

• Number of places: 12–15

• Cost: Will be kept low, covering flights in April, some excursions and meals (accommodation and most meals will be covered through host families). Exact figures will be circulated at a later date. 

Why take part?

• Cultural Exchange – A unique chance to get to experience life in another culture. This is not a language exchange; all students at Christianeum School speak English. However, there will be opportunities to learn some German with myself and Miss Griggs for interested pupils.

• Personal Growth – Students will develop independence, adaptability and confidence while exploring a new culture.

• Career Benefits – Germany is Europe’s largest economy and the UK’s biggest European trading partner. This experience will help students develop global awareness and connections.

About Christianeum School, Hamburg

Christianeum is a prestigious secondary school in the heart of Hamburg. The school fosters cross-cultural understanding and offers a diverse range of academic, artistic and sporting activities. I have some personal connections there and they are very keen to build up this exchange with us!

How the exchange works

• Hosting in the UK – Kimbolton families will host German students for a week, attending school together and enjoying visits to places such as London and Cambridge.

• Visit to Germany – Our students will stay with German host families in April. Note that this leg of the visit takes place in the final week of our three-week Easter holiday. The German pupils will be in school and we will spend some time in Christianeum (in English-taught lessons and activities). We will also experience Hamburg’s cultural landmarks, such as the Elbphilharmonie concert hall, St Michael’s Church and the bustling harbour. The itinerary will appeal to pupils with interests in business, economics and politics, as well as in the humanities.

Next steps

If we have significantly more than 12-15 wanting to take part, we may ask pupils to write a more detailed letter of application. 

This is a unique opportunity for your child to broaden their horizons, build international friendships and develop skills that will benefit them in future studies and careers.

We look forward to an enriching and memorable exchange!