Many international students dream of experiencing life at a British boarding school. This Summer Term, Fyling Hall is lucky enough to welcome a number of Spanish students who are staying for this very reason. For a short while, Spanish pupils will not only experience life at a British boarding school, but also improve their English. Let me tell you about our first group’s experience . . .

Every day the students from Barcelona participated in lessons, including in assemblies. As they are interacting with our full time students all day, they often form first and fast friendships – a true benefit of being at a boarding school!

On the weekends, the students took part in cultural trips. On the first group’s first weekend with us, Miss Henderson introduced them to the delights of Whitby as they followed the wonderful heritage trail around town- though the real highlight was apparently the fish and chips! Justin then took them to the beach and into Robin Hoods Bay on Sunday, so they could familiarise themselves with our lovely surroundings, and enjoy an ice cream.

On the middle weekend, Miss Havelock accompanied them to York, where they managed to squeeze in a trip to the National Railway Museum, several shopping stops, and a detour to the lovely York Minster. The students then went to the beautiful Ravenscar, where they were lucky enough to see the seal colony. Whilst it was rather a long walk, it was definitely worth it!

For their final weekend with us, the students went to laser tag on the Friday night, and then into Whitby for a final souvenir shopping trip. On the Sunday, they went to Falling Foss, where they enjoyed a lovely cake and juice. A delightful treat!

It has been a joy having the Spanish students here at Fyling Hall. They have blended in with our own students beautifully, and we hope they have thoroughly enjoyed their time with us. We look forward to welcoming three more groups of students from various different Spanish schools in the coming weeks, and we are certain they will enjoy experiencing life at a British boarding school!

But enough from me- I asked the Spanish students what they had enjoyed most about their time with us:

‘I like the library and Drama best.’

Valeria

‘I like everything, even though the food is very different!’

Sara

‘I liked riding the horses, especially when we got to trot.’

Pau

‘My favourite bit was riding the horses- they’re so nice!’

Laia

Rosie Havelock, Boarding Team