Westonbirt Students Enjoy Unforgettable Japanese Exchange

19th November 2025 

Three Westonbirt School students, Finlay, Jude and George, recently returned from a two-and-a-half-week cultural exchange in Japan, where they explored Japanese language, traditions and school life, gaining unforgettable experiences along the way.

All three boys spent very enjoyable and richly informative hours in the classrooms of their Japanese partners. The staff and pupils were extremely hospitable and friendly, and the Westonbirt students embraced a wide range of educational and cultural experiences, including learning the ancient art of calligraphy with their peers. They saw first-hand how Japanese educators combine traditional and modern approaches to learning with a strong emphasis on teamwork and collective achievement — even during daily classroom cleaning. It was equally remarkable to witness the importance of festivals and traditions through their participation in extra-curricular activities such as Kendo, Japanese archery and Judo.

Conversely, the boys also found very ready audiences for sharing their own experiences of life and learning at Westonbirt and in the UK. The cultural and social benefits were incredibly enriching in terms of new perspectives and insights. The boys had an absolutely brilliant exchange visit — truly the experience of a lifetime!

The students embraced every opportunity to engage with Japanese traditions and learning. Highlights included the bowing deer of Nara, gold-leaf temples in Kyoto, fireworks and the warm hospitality of their host families. The combination of academic lessons and cultural immersion offered a unique insight into how education and daily life are interwoven in Japan, giving the students a deep appreciation for different ways of learning and living.

Reflecting on the trip, Finlay said:

“The trip was a fantastic experience. For me, the amazing host family and the rare outlook they shared on our different ways of life was such an eye-opener. At Nara, the incredibly polite, bowing deer and towering temples contrasted with the vibrant Japanese cities and modern schools. In Kyoto, the gold-leaf temples and sweet matcha were each a unique and welcome surprise. From fireworks to lively train stations and the incredible school, I am sure I will not forget this trip anytime soon.”

George also shared his reflections:

“For me, Japan was an unforgettable and eye-opening experience — not only because it was my first time in Asia, but also because we learned so much about the local way of life, lived with a host family and attended school there. My favourite part was exploring the big cities and getting to know my host family, who treated me with such care and were always ready to help. The school in Japan was incredible. The students were so kind and welcoming, helping me adjust to both school life and the local environment. We made many friends, learned basic conversational Japanese and created memories that will last a lifetime. I would recommend this exchange to everyone — Japan is an amazing country and will fascinate you in so many ways.”

The exchange left Finlay, Jude and George with lasting memories, new friendships and a deep appreciation for Japanese traditions, education and daily life. Experiences like this are an important part of a Westonbirt education, helping students grow as globally minded, confident young people while strengthening the school’s international partnerships and enriching the wider school community.

Westonbirt looks forward to welcoming students from Konan High School in the future, continuing this meaningful exchange of ideas and experiences.