St. Bede's Language College DH 70RD29 Lanchester Haedmaster: Maureen Bates Coordinator: Virginia Hill

One of the students who went to Poland has since described the visit as a "life-changing experience". The staff who went sald it was a humbling expeńence because they were so warmly received. On arrival at the airport they were greeted by a Comenius project welcome banner and a welcoming party. The welcome was by 100 pupils and all the staff at the school the first evening; a buffet had been laid out for the visiting school parties from Italy, Spain, France and our school. The visitors were all presented with a rose. The flags of the 5 schools in the project were tlying as well as the EU flag at the front of the school. Everyone enjoyed a special traditional Christmas eve style meal wich beetroot soup, perch and pike amongst the delicacies on offer.

There was a tour of the school, and a presentation of Polish Culture in Polish and English. 6th form students did their traditional Jance in full suits and ballgowns.

The whole village arrived to listen to presentations by the 5 schools at the town hall. Gifts from Derwentside Council were gratefully received by the Polish school.

Our group enjoyed demonstrations of lessons in all the different subjects.

Our students prepared a multimedia presentation about our region. Visits to see aspects of local history including stately homes, the beautiful architecture in Poznan, a shrine to John Paul II, a National Park and to meet local celebńties were all popular aspects of the visit. A visu to see Carmen at the opera was another highlight. Everyone spoke of the overwhelming hospitality of our Polish hosts.

Staff and students greatly valued the opportunity to see life in 2 Polish schools. Pupil behaviour was superlative, and there was a real thirst for learning.

This meeting provided superb opportunities throughout to get to knoty staff and students from the other 4 schools, and plan for the future. Following the visit we were able to present our work to pupils, other staff and parents via the school newspaper.