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Toledo & Madrid, Spain
Our trip to Spain was a rich and unforgettable cultural, linguistic, and social experience for our pupils. We arrived in Madrid and were welcomed by the local trip provider, who ensured smooth logistics and a comfortable stay. Highlights included a scavenger hunt at a local shop, where pupils practised their Spanish and compared local prices with those in Kenya—an excellent task for intercultural understanding. Other memorable experiences were sightseeing in Madrid, exploring historical Toledo, and making marzipan while singing “Bolita, bolita ponte redondita.” Pupils also visited landmarks, tried to order in Spanish at Starbucks, and enjoyed the spectacular Puy du Fou theatrical production. The time spent with our partner school was the most impactful part of the journey.
How would you describe your experience visiting your partner school?
Visiting our partner school, San José Corazonistas – Fuensalida, was a heartwarming and inspiring experience. We were welcomed with great warmth and generosity by both staff and students. Ryan, the coordinating teacher, had prepared a wide variety of lessons and activities that fostered active participation and connection. Our pupils spent time with their Spanish counterparts during workshops, lessons, and social activities. It was remarkable to witness the authentic exchange of languages—Spanish pupils practising English and Kenyan pupils using Spanish. Pupils shared personal stories, interests, and laughter, reinforcing the value of global friendships. The Headmaster’s supportive and understanding attitude added to the success of the visit.
What impact has the trip had on the students?
This trip had a profound impact on our students. Many returned more confident in using Spanish in real contexts, from ordering food to engaging in basic conversations. Socially, they became more open, curious, and adaptable—learning to navigate new cultures and situations with empathy and respect. Their global awareness expanded as they recognised cultural similarities and differences, and formed meaningful connections with Spanish peers. The experience helped shape more globally minded, socially responsible young people.
They became more open, curious, and adaptable—learning to navigate new cultures and situations with empathy and respect
What are your aspirations for developing this partnership?
Our aspiration is to transform this partnership into a long-lasting, enriching exchange that continues to benefit both schools culturally, linguistically, and socially. We aim to expand the collaboration by introducing joint student projects throughout the year, including digital pen-pal programmes, shared cultural celebrations, and co-created learning resources.
We also hope to explore staff exchanges and collaborative professional development opportunities that allow teachers from both schools to observe, learn, and share best practices in language teaching and global citizenship education.
Ultimately, we want to strengthen students’ global awareness and empathy by providing meaningful, real-world interactions with peers from different backgrounds. Our long-term vision is to create a strong bond between our communities that supports deeper intercultural understanding and shared responsibility as global citizens.
Would you recommend an experience like this to other schools?
Absolutely. Trips like this bring learning to life in a way no classroom can replicate. Students develop empathy, resilience, and real-world communication skills. Cultural exchange fosters tolerance, curiosity, and deeper appreciation for global citizenship. Schools looking to prepare students for an interconnected world should strongly consider offering such enriching international experiences.
Would you recommend booking with the Global School Alliance?
Yes, we wholeheartedly recommend booking with the Global School Alliance. GSA provided invaluable support throughout the process—from initial planning to connecting us with a perfect partner school. Their clear communication, guidance, and flexibility helped us create a meaningful and well-organised trip. The GSA team made the experience smooth, collaborative, and truly rewarding for everyone involved.
Our partnership trip to Spain through the GSA was a transformative experience for our students. From practising Spanish in real contexts to forming genuine friendships, every moment was filled with learning and growth. The support and professionalism of the GSA were outstanding. We look forward to more collaborations in the future!
”Our recent trip to Spain, hosted by San José Corazonistas through the Global School Alliance, was an unforgettable and enriching experience for our pupils. The warm welcome, carefully planned programme, and genuine collaboration between staff and students made the exchange both educational and enjoyable. From cultural immersion to meaningful peer interactions, our pupils gained confidence, broadened their perspectives, and built lasting connections. We are truly grateful for this partnership and look forward to future exchanges.
Beisy QuintanaHead of Languages, Peponi House Preparatory School
