Four Rutherford College students, Renee Lochead, Jessica Lynch-Blosse, Cole Whitcombe and Daniel Peacock,  have begun an exciting two-month cultural exchange to Bavaria, Germany. Leaving Auckland this week, they will join their host families, attend classes at local German schools, and immerse themselves fully in everyday Bavarian life.

Throughout their stay, the students will have the unique opportunity to experience a traditional German Christmas—complete with winter markets, festive decorations, and cultural celebrations very different from a Kiwi summer. Attending school in Germany will allow them to see how learning happens in another country, make new friendships, and continue developing their German language skills in an authentic environment.

This exchange is part of the long-standing Germany–New Zealand partnership that promotes global citizenship, independence, and intercultural understanding. The experience will come full circle early next year, when the students’ German exchange partners visit Rutherford College in February for their return stay.

We wish the group all the best for their adventure and look forward to welcoming the German students into our community soon.

by Petra Scheffer-Cosslett