DORCAN Academy students had the opportunity to develop their language skills last week during an exciting visit from German students as part of an exchange programme.

The school plays host to students from the Helmholtz Gymnasium Zwierbrucken every year and last Wednesday, the group visited the academy to find out more about different cultures in the UK.

The Dorcan students not only had the chance to make friends with their German counterparts but the visit also aimed to allow them to develop their language skills and continue corresponding in the future.

During the visit between the schools, which have created a longstanding link with one another, the Year 9 students took part in an Italian lesson, a rounders session before having a break for a traditionally English tea.

Director of Languages Nora Schlatte said the visit was an excellent experience for all the students and staff involved.

She added: "It is important because it give our students an invaluable opportunity to meet students from another country and to compare their experiences. Experiences like these allow students to appreciate the value of learning a foreign language and to see the practical application of the work they do in class.

"Meeting students from a German speaking country may inspire our students to take on German in the future and to travel."

The German students, who visit Dorcan on a yearly basis as part of a five day trip to the UK, spent the morning in Swindon before exploring Bristol, Bath and London during the rest of their time in the country.