In March, a group of Year 9 John Lyon pupils, accompanied by staff, embarked on a memorable journey to Bangkok for an exchange hosted by Harrow International School Bangkok (HS Bangkok).

In addition to experiencing schooling in a different cultural setting our pupils had an incredible opportunity to engage in a number of culturally enriching activities. They visited a local Farmers’ Market, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of daily life in the city and sampled traditional treats like tanghulu – fruits coated in melted sugar on bamboo skewers. A memorable dinner at the Sky Restaurant in Baiyoke Tower, Thailand’s tallest building, where they enjoyed breathtaking views of the city was another great experience.

The evenings were spent bonding with their HS Bangkok school buddies, playing football and volleyball, and taking refreshing swims in the hotel pool to cool off from the heat. The group also ventured out for dinner at Baan-Rabiang-Nam (River Tree Restaurant), where they savoured fantastic food and live music in a picturesque riverside setting.

A highlight of the trip was the visit to Kanchanaburi, where the group explored iconic locations such as River Kwai Village, the River Kwai Bridge and the Thai-Burma Railway. They learnt about the history and horrors of war. On the final day in Kanchanaburi, the group had a thrilling paddleboarding experience, which they all thoroughly enjoyed.

This trip was filled with adventure, learning and new friendships. From the classrooms at HS Bangkok to the serene landscapes of Kanchanaburi, it was an unforgettable experience that the group will treasure for years to come.

As part of the two-way exchange, John Lyon warmly welcomed a group of pupils from HS Bangkok to London. Between engaging school days with their peers at John Lyon, the pupils from Thailand had the opportunity to explore some of London’s most iconic attractions, including the London Dungeon, the London Eye, and a Thames Cruise, all followed by delightful dinners in the city. They also visited the Natural History Museum, enjoyed a theatre experience watching ‘The Lion King’. This enriching experience not only gave the visiting pupils a glimpse into UK school life at John Lyon but also provided valuable insights into British culture.