Far Beyond Branksome

Meeting with the Madrid exchange students.

Last month I had the opportunity to attend the IB World Heads of School Conference in Seville, Spain. During the trip I also had the pleasure to meet with some of the families of our Spanish Exchange students, including the Saguars, in Madrid, who hosted me for a whirlwind two-day visit.

One of the most amazing things that I have come to learn over the years is that the true value of these experiences always lies with the people you meet and the relationships that you build.

When people like the Saguars open their home and their hearts to you, your learning goes far beyond historical events and beautiful cities; you actually begin to absorb the way of life, the culture and the habits of people living in different countries and with different perspectives.

Many of us have the chance to represent Branksome Hall in settings far beyond our school. It is always with a great sense of pride that I meet people from around the globe who are connected to Branksome — and whom we have welcomed to our school in some way.

Whether you travel as an exchange student, as a participant in international community service or as the school Principal visiting Branksome community members in the far corners of the world, by far, the greatest benefit is in the relationship that you develop with those who welcome you into their lives.

Instead of my week being confined to a conference, I had the chance to make new friends, be part of a family and to learn firsthand about the way of life in another country. For the students who had the pleasure of getting to know our four Spanish exchange students and who will be travelling there very soon, I can tell you that you will have the experience of a lifetime when you are with your exchange families in Madrid.