PRESS RELEASE
17 March 2015
European Erasmus students in Shetland next week
Twenty eight students from four European countries will be in Shetland next week, as guests of the Brae High School.
The pupils, all aged 13 to 18 years of age, will be travelling to Shetland from schools in Turkey, Latvia, Sardinia and Norway, accompanied by eight teachers. They will spend a week in Shetland from 21st to 28th March, learning about different aspects of life in the islands, including the fishing and oil industries, knitwear and textiles, coastal walks and Up Helly Aa.
The project has been funded by the European Erasmus+ programme, which aims to encourage staff and pupils to travel around Europe to experience life, culture and education in different countries. The linking factor for all participating countries is that they lie on the fringes of Europe, and one of the themes of the visit is to explore what it means to be a young person living on the edge of the continent.
The pupils will be staying with local families in the north mainland, and Brae High School has co-ordinated their programme of activities. Many local businesses have provided generous sponsorship for the visit, and assisted with the provision of transport, meals and tours of workplaces. Shetland Islands Council will also host a civic lunch reception at Lerwick Town Hall.
Colin Kirkness, Headteacher of Brae High School: “We are pleased to be able to to welcome these young people and are looking forward to a great week of activities. Thanks to all the staff, parents, pupils, local businesses, community organisations and individuals who have helped in the planning of this event. I’d like to also thank the Delting Community Council and the local Up-Helly-Aa committees in particular.”
Council Convener, Malcolm Bell: “I welcome the visit of these young people from across Europe. I hope they will experience some of the best that our islands have to offer in the time that they are here. This type of youth exchange project provides a platform for innovative global education and encourages international understanding which helps to safeguard and improve all our futures.”
ENDS
Caption for photo: Brae High School gets ready for ERASMUS students.
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