We were once again very fortunate to invite students from China to experience life in a North London school. Each visitor had an EBS ‘buddy’ that they experienced life with for a week, seeing all lessons, breaks, lunchtime and clubs – a real cultural exchange. The absolute highlight was the closing ceremony where there were some brilliant performances, and such a lovely speech from one of the student visitors which we have copied below. We look forward to welcoming more visitors in the future!
Good afternoon, distinguished teachers, dear buddies, and my fellow students!
It is truly an honor to stand here today, representing all Chinese students, to share our heartfelt experiences after this wonderful one-week immersion study in East Barnet School. Looking back over the past seven days, every moment has been etched into our memories as a precious treasure – one that has brought us growth, insight, and friendships that transcend borders.
Before arriving, we anticipated many challenges, and language initially seemed like the most daunting barrier. At first, we were hesitant to speak, worried about mispronunciations or being misunderstood. However, through the warmth and patience of our buddies, something beautiful happened: we transitioned from awkward silences to lively conversations.
English, which many of us previously viewed as a 150-point subject on an exam, has been transformed into a vibrant bridge connecting our hearts. Through late-night discussions about our hobbies, casual chats in the cafeteria, and group work in class, we realised that language is far more than grammar rules or vocabulary lists – it is a tool to share stories, express ideas, and build human connections. This experience has breathed life into our English, making it more meaningful than ever before.
Beyond language, we have gained profound insights into global education and cultural diversity.
Attending classes here allowed us to explore different teaching styles and academic perspectives, showing us that there are countless ways to learning. We also immersed ourselves in British culture – from sampling traditional foods to understanding local customs. These experiences helped us truly grasp the meaning of “seeking common ground while respecting differences”. We discovered that despite our different backgrounds, we share the same thirst for knowledge, the same love for life, and the same longing for friendship.
None of this would have been possible without the support of so many people. First, a heartfelt thank you to our buddies. Thank you for your patience and kindness – for slowing down your speech, for repeating yourselves without hesitation, and for making us feel at home from day one. Your friendship has been the highlight of our trip. We also want to thank both the Chinese and British schools for organising this program. You have provided us with a rare opportunity to broaden our international horizons and see the world through a wider lens.
As we reflect on this week, we realise that this immersion study is more than just a personal journey; it is a meaningful step in the friendship between China and the UK. As the Chinese proverb goes, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step”. Every laugh we shared and every connection we built is a brick in the bridge between our two nations. We are proud to have contributed to this bond.
As our time here comes to an end, we carry home not only new skills but also a broader perspective and cherished memories. We look forward to sharing these stories in China and hope that one day, we can welcome our British friends to our homes to experience our culture and hospitality.
Once again, thank you to all the teachers and buddies for making one-week immersion study unforgettable. May the friendship between China and the UK flourish, and may our personal bonds last a lifetime!
Thank you!
