The Spanish Exchange
Having been warmly welcomed in true Spanish style, the Spanish Exchange is now underway in the Basque Country of northern Spain, the homeland of Ignatius Loyola. Fifteen Grammarians, accompanied by Miss Mercer and Mr Ansell, are attending San Jose Jesuitak school in Durango; the link with this Jesuit school was established nine years ago and has proved to be a valuable experience in the language learning and cultural awareness of our pupils.
As well as time spent in class, the group has visited the coastal town of Bermeo, and Gernika, the heart of Basque heritage. This week, Gernika commemorates the 75th Anniversary of the bombing of the town in 1937, a poignant reminder of its history. The visit to the new Museum of Peace was a thought-provoking experience and was a good starting point for the ideas for this year´s project on 'Peace and Tolerance through Art'.
This was followed by a trip to Bilbao and its Museo de Bellas Artes which further enhanced the collaborative work between Stonyhurst and San Jose pupils. The week will culminate with an exhibition of photography produced by the pupils.
In addition to these cultural excusions, Stonyhurst pupils have attended Spanish lessons, tortilla cookery workshops and garden design practicals to encourage their extensive use of the language. 2012 sees another successful visit where friendships and memories are created.
Miss Helen Mercer
Head of Spanish
