Gatwick pupils build international friendships through transatlantic pen pal project
Year 5 pupils at The Gatwick School, part of Aurora Academies Trust, have been building international friendships with students in the United States through a pen pal project that is bringing learning beyond the classroom.
On return from the Christmas break, pupils wrote letters to their new American pen pals, beginning a cultural exchange that has helped bring their writing to life.
As the project developed, pupils shared their interests, experiences at TGS and favourite books, including Harry Potter which pupils were reading at the time, discovering similarities and differences in their day-to-day lives.
To celebrate the start of the exchange, pupils welcomed a real snowy owl named Hedwig – inspired by the much-loved story – who helped to “deliver” their letters as they were sent overseas.
Excitement grew as pupils received replies from across the Atlantic. To mark the occasion, both schools took part in a virtual meet-up where they opened their letters at the same time and learning more about each other’s cultures and communities.
Pupils also celebrated by dressing as their favourite Harry Potter characters, bringing the magic of the books to life in the classroom.
The project has helped pupils at TGS develop their writing skills, while encouraging them to think more broadly about the world around them. By connecting with different children overseas, pupils have gained a greater understanding of global communities and the importance of communication.
David Marillat, Headteacher at The Gatwick School, said: “We’re incredibly proud to see our pupils building real global friendships which reflects the spirit of our TGS Family. Providing exceptional experiences both in and beyond the classroom is at the heart of everything we do, and this initiative has given our pupils meaningful opportunities to explore the world and different cultures."