Last week saw the eighth Pozuelo exchange visit for Ilkley Grammar School, which was the biggest yet with 30 Year 11 students all taking GCSE Spanish, hosting their Spanish guests.

Ilkley Grammar School students had already enjoyed a marvellous week in Madrid in the February half term.

The visitors enjoyed the sights of York, Haworth and Saltaire where they went up the Shipley Glen tramway. They also visited Skipton Castle and market and Old Trafford, which included a guided tour of Manchester as well as the stadium. They took advantage of the Upstagers production of Les Miserables on Sunday evening, some experienced horse riding while others went to Malham. One student, Tom Hepworth, even treated his exchange partner to a whistle stop tour of London.

In school, staff hosted Spanish students in their lessons so they could compare their school life. They baked scones and played rounders, both of which were entirely new experiences for Spanish students as they do not have food technology classes in Spain and don’t play rounders.

Spanish teacher Mrs Diane Kitchen said: “We are very proud of this exchange. For many students it is a life-changing experience.

“Many of our previous participants are still in touch and are still visiting each other during the holidays. We hope to build on its success and have increasing numbers in the future.”

One of the Spanish students said: “I would definitely recommend this trip as I had such an amazing time. This experience could not have been achieved on any other trip as I have had to live in a different home and get used to a new culture. My partner was so lovely and kind and the group of English students was very supportive and I have made new friends, both English and Spanish.”

Ilkley Grammar School student Alex MacPherson said: “It was one of the best experiences of my life and I am already planning on visiting my partner again in the summer.”