Spain

Twelve students travelled to Spain over the break and spent time in Madrid and Toledo with host families.

While in Spain, the girls immersed themselves in Spanish culture, touring palaces, museums, spending time at a Spanish school with their host “sisters” and of course, eating Spanish food.

Year 9 student Ariadne Ward describes Toledo, where they stayed with their host families: “Toledo is small, much like Bermuda, but is also a very ancient and beautiful place to visit.

“We took tours of cathedrals and many religious sites in Toledo, learning about some of its myths and history. While we were there, we also shared our cultures with our host sisters, their families and anyone new we met.

“We would exchange information about Spanish and Bermudian culture and amaze each other with everything we knew. This was also extremely helpful to my Spanish speaking skills as I was exposed to it constantly.

“Though the educational impact the Spanish trip made on me was great, I think the most memorable thing about the trip was the new friends I made.

“There were some fun times my host sister and her friends and I had together which were unforgettable.”

Hajira Amjath, Y9, said: “The trip, in my opinion, really helped me with my Spanish because I was fully submerged in the Spanish culture.

“This meant that I had to get out of my comfort zone and do things I never imagined doing like actually ordering a meal in Spanish to a person rather than in a classroom.

“Even though this may seem like a small thing, it is really big because you have to have confidence to ask for a meal in Spanish rather than asking in English and hoping they understand.

“I learnt that if I put my mind to something I will be able to achieve it.”