28.11.25
19 students from North Halifax Grammar School have returned from an unforgettable trip to India – describing the experience as “life-changing”, “inspiring” and unlike anything they had ever seen before.
Organised by the Global School Alliance, the exchange visit took pupils to Kerala and Chennai, where they spent time exploring India’s vibrant culture and visiting their sister school, SRM Public School. From bustling markets and ancient temples to tuk-tuk rides and school immersion activities, students embraced every moment of the journey.
Kavita Sharma, International Coordinator at North Halifax Grammar School, said she felt “immense pride” watching students adapt so quickly: “From the moment we landed, they were hit with a sensory tsunami – the heat, the noise, the food, the pace of Chennai. Yet they didn’t just cope, they embraced it. Their willingness to try new foods, even the really spicy dishes, showed how open-minded they were.”
Central to the visit was a three-day immersion at their sister school, where they took part in lessons, campus tours, creative workshops and group projects, including a renewable energy challenge with their buddies.
Joe McWilliams, Head of Science, explained: “On arrival at the school, our students met their buddies from SRM. The atmosphere was electric – excited conversation commenced straight away, without any input or structure from us as teachers.
“The students loved sharing stories about their different schools and home lives, yet the differences in their cultures were dwarfed by the eagerness to learn and warmth of all of the students involved.”
Finance Manager Cherie Hadcroft described visiting their partner school as “the most impactful experience of the trip.” She added: “The performances, the warmth, the impeccable behaviour – everything was extraordinary. Watching our students build genuine friendships was incredibly moving.”
Year 11 student Maryam said: “Receiving the tilak and garland was the warmest welcome I’ve ever had. It made us feel instantly respected and valued.”
Inspired by their peers, Year 10 student Alfred, said: “Watching how dedicated the Indian students were to their studies was truly motivating. It gave me a new appreciation for my own education and a sense of shared academic ambition across borders.”
Year 10 student Edward added: “My buddy, Rohan, explained everything – from assemblies to daily life in Chennai. It made everything feel natural straight away.”
The visit proved transformational in building students’ confidence and resilience as they navigated busy cities, new environments and unfamiliar routines.
Students also delivered a presentation on West Yorkshire, climate change and the UN Sustainable Development Goals to hundreds of staff and learners at SRM – an experience Year 10 student Kamran described as “a huge confidence boost.”
Teachers observed how the deep cultural immersion “moved learning from abstract theory into tangible reality” and helped them develop genuine global awareness, empathy and a more informed worldview.
Year 10 student Charlie summed it up: “This trip challenged my perspective on so many things. It taught me more about resilience and adaptability than any textbook ever could.”
