Applications are being welcomed from students aged 16 to 18 who may wish to take part in next year’s Flintshire Optec Japanese Youth Exchange, a cultural exchange with Japan.
This year, six students from Flintshire high schools took part in the exchange. During late July and August they were host to six Japanese students who spent two weeks sharing cultural and social events and Welsh hospitality. Then the Flintshire students flew to Japan where they were guests of the Japanese Exchange students’ families and dignitaries who immersed them in an exciting, once-in-a-lifetime experience of Japanese culture.
Information has already been sent to high schools, colleges and Glyndwr University campuses in Flintshire inviting students aged 16 to 18 on 1 September 2013 – and in full-time education in the county – to apply for the 2014 Exchange.
There will also be a presentation evening for students and their parents who are interested in finding out more on Tuesday 22 October at 7pm in the Council Chambers in County Hall, Mold. Application forms will be available on the night. For further information please contact Beth Ditson, the JYE Coordinator, on 01352 702472 or Lynne Caul on 01352 704408.
Cllr Carolyn Thomas, Chair of Flintshire County Council, said:
“This exchange offers a wonderful opportunity for both countries to come together to learn about each others’ way of life and culture and is a particularly rewarding experience for the young people who take part. Staying with families is the best way of learning by immersing in the language and culture in a caring environment with fellow students for support. I would urge young people – and their parents – to seriously consider applying for next year’s exchange.”
