Write a commentStaff and pupils from St Paul's High School in Bessbrook have returned from their third visit to Kirovsk in Russia as part of a relationship forged in 2013 when the then Newry and Mourne Council invited the school to initiate a partnership with School 7 in Kirovsk, Russia.
The school shares educational experiences and explore their different cultures on the biennial exchange visit. The pupils and staff have were hosted by the pupils and staff from School 7 who made the visitors very welcome.
St. Paul’s students took part in several lessons, experiencing what it was like to be a student in Russia, at both the primary and secondary levels of education. Pupils in both schools showcased many of their talents, including dance, art and music. Participants even had the chance to take to the ski slope.
The pupils experienced how different the two cultures are but also how similar they are, even though they live many thousands of miles away.
The people of Kirovsk are a very proud people and they are delighted with the links they have with Newry, Mourne and Down. There is even a museum in School 7 and a section in their town museum dedicated to Newry and St. Paul’s H.S.
As one of the participants commented "It was a privileged to be part of such an adventure and a real mind broadening experience for all involved."
The visit even made Russian television which you can check out on Youtube at youtu.be
