The Modern School, ECNCR organised a Student Exchange Programme with Wirtemberg Gymnasium School, Stuttgart, Germany for the students of classes S4–S7 from September 27 to October 9, 2019.

International learning and knowledge propel students towards acceptance and understanding of an array of different cultural and community perspectives. It increases awareness and adoption of alternative, multi-faceted approaches to learning. It also enhances the interest in global issues as well as a broader general knowledge.

The student exchange programme encompassed many learnings. The most important aspect was the ‘homestay’ experience with the host families for two weeks. Our students got an insider-view into the German culture in terms of their food, living style, customs, relationships and traditions. They discovered warm, welcoming and cozy homes, miles away from their own homes. They also observed the working of the German school to garner a deep understanding of their educational practices.

During their stay, the students were taken around Stuttgart to visit historic monuments, guided city tour, Cannstatter Volksfest (Oktober Fest), Football match, cafes and other areas of tourist interest. The students also visited the world’s largest ice caves in Salzburg, Austria. During their ‘family days’ with the host families, they traveled to destinations like Switzerland, Italy and Berlin where they were able to enjoy the scenic beauty of these historic places and bond with the host families.

They also visited Tübingen and Heidelberg, cities of great historical importance and among Germany’s oldest universities, Lake Constance and many more places. The highlight of the trip for the students was the visit to the Ritter Sport Chocolate Factory, where they were able to make their own chocolates as well.

Students also got an opportunity to visit the city Secretariat, where they were explained about the city’s municipal structure and offices of authorities.

The young modernites also showcased the rich dance form of our Indian heritage which left the Germans impressed. The fifteen-day visit left a memorable mark on all the students, who came back home enriched and appreciative of the hospitality shown by the German counterparts.