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Terrington St Clement students experience amazing trip to Japan




Aspiring artists had the opportunity to hone their talents in one of the most creative countries in the world when they travelled to Japan for the adventure of a lifetime.

A group of 40 Year 10 and 11 students from St Clement’s High School, in Terrington St Clement, spent five nights in Tokyo, where they tried their hands at traditional Japanese skills, such as calligraphy and sushi making.

The students, who were all studying fine art, photography, 3D design or drama at GCSE, were accompanied by trip organiser Lisa Rigby, who teaches art and photography, head of design technology Craig Falco, head of drama Carl Schwarz, and Phil Bennell, art lead at the West Norfolk Academies Trust, of which the school is a member.

Sushi making
Sushi making

“We left Tokyo and headed to the Hakone region close to Mount Fuji,” said Mrs Rigby. “Unfortunately poor weather prevented the group from seeing the iconic volcano, but they did still enjoy a boat trip on Lake Ashi and a visit to the open air museum.

One of the sight-seeing highlights
One of the sight-seeing highlights

“Another highlight was experiencing the Takarazuka Theatre – something which is nearly impossible for non-residents to obtain tickets for, and many Japanese have never had the opportunity to go, so we were very fortunate.”

Trying traditional Japanese skills
Trying traditional Japanese skills

It was the second time that the trip had taken place, and the school is already planning next year’s return.

Trip of a lifetime for students.
Trip of a lifetime for students.

Visits included the Sensoji Temple and Meiji Jingu Shrines, along with the iconic Shibuya crossing, Harajuku, and the Tokyo Sky Tree, which is known for its panoramic views across the city. The group also spent time at the world-renowned TeamLab Planets, and had the chance to explore the surrounding area.

“It was fascinating to be able to have a first-hand view of not only the difference between our own culture and the Japanese culture, but also the differences between the modern Japan and the older Japan,” said student Isla Bennell.

“I loved being immersed in both sides of the Japanese culture. It was the trip of a lifetime,” said Lily Jackson.

“As an art student, I personally felt honoured to be able to experience the creative side of the Japanese culture, even creating my own calligraphy – it was inspiring,” added Caitlin Cox, while Ella Evie Baker said: “The videos on my phone don’t capture the experience I had at TeamLab. It is something I will remember forever.”

Mrs Rigby said: “Trips like this have value for so many reasons. Firstly, Tokyo is one of the creative capitals of the world, and so getting to visit a range of art and design galleries, and experience theatre unlike ours, can directly influence and support their GCSE studies.

“But in addition to this, students also gain so much from simply immersing themselves in a completely new culture.”

“Japan is often a country out of reach for many, and so being able to take 40 students to the other side of the world is a privilege, and a chance in a lifetime for those who go.”



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