The Pocklingtonian 2018/19 | Page 97

TRIPS// GERMANY FEBRUARY IN ALFELD My host family was great, they have two huskies called Luna and Baloo. They´re so cute and I took them for a walk every day with Lara. On the weekend I went to a dance on Saturday it was great because I got to meet all of Lara’s friends and on Sunday I was actually taken around Grünenplan by Lara and one of her best friends Helen, who was really nice and helped me with my German. I was very sad to leave my lovely host family and I hope to visit Germany again soon! On the first day into the activities we had two lessons with our partners and then we were greeted by the schools headmaster, and a organised school band which was fabulous, and they played one of my favourite songs from Mamma Mia, which couldn’t have been played any better. I got into my suit to get ready for the ‘Prom’ (Party), that some of us went to. It was great and it was great fun, we did lots of dancing and ate and drank loads. When I arrived in Hannover I was very tired and confused so didn’t speak much German or understand very much. As the week went on I got more confident and started understanding people and forming sentences faster. I have had the best time ever! All the people are so nice and I have made so many friends for life! Thank you so much Mr. Galloway and Mrs. Wright for the best experience ever! My Host family was so nice and I can’t have imagined a better half term! Overall I am very happy I came on the exchange as it has not only given me the chance to improve my German but also to make new friends and have amazing experiences that I otherwise wouldn’t have had. Many people helped to make my stay pleasant and enjoyable and I am thankful to everyone who helped make this trip possible. AND FINALLY… “When I arrived at Pocklington in September 1999, I really wanted to set up a German Exchange, as I had taken part in three as a school pupil myself and had organised one for eight years at my previous school. I have seen how much benefit students gain from exchanges, both in terms of language skills, and knowledge of other cultures and countries, not to mention having lots of fun along the way making memories and friendships which can last a lifetime - I am still in touch with partners from my school time, and that is a long, long time ago! The link with Alfeld has been going 19 years and many exchange participants are still in touch with partners, and even family holidays have been undertaken with partners and their families! I hope the exchange will continue for another 19 years at least, and know that both Pocklington School and Gymnasium Alfeld are 100% committed to more exchanges and links in the future.” We shall all miss Mr. Galloway’s involvement. Thank you for all you have done. Mr. Galloway, Head of Modern Languages at Pocklington School: THE POCKLINGTONIAN 95