09
Sep
Two of our Sixth Form students have returned from an unforgettable educational visit to Japan, where they represented both their school and the local community as part of an the international NDF STEAM programme.
NDF is a Japanese organisation, that was established after the 2011 tsunami, to ensure that appropriate compensation was given to the victims of the Fukushima accident (caused by the tsunami).
The NDF International Forum has been held annually since 2016. It brings together local Fukushima residents, Japanese & international experts, engineers, scientists and decision makers.
Ava and Ace from St Benedict’s Sixth Form travelled to Japan during the summer holidays, taking part in workshops, presentations and cultural activities alongside students from across Japan.
The programme explored topics including artificial intelligence, food production, the legacy of the 2011 Fukushima disaster and the future of the nuclear industry. Working in international teams, the students collaborated with Japanese peers to develop and deliver presentations based on their learning and experiences.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant and its associated museum, where students gained a first-hand understanding of the ongoing decommissioning process and the long-term impact of the earthquake and tsunami on local communities.
Reflecting on the experience, Ava said:
“The trip to Japan was an amazing experience and is definitely something I’ll remember for a long time. The opportunity to visit Fukushima Daiichi and find out about the work being carried out there gave me an entirely new view of nuclear energy, the process of decommissioning and the difficulties that communities can encounter after a disaster.”
“We were also able to experience Japanese culture and daily life, which made the trip seem like much more than just an educational one.”
“I believe that this trip has really helped me in terms of boosting my confidence, increasing my independence and improving my communication skills, as well as giving me a much better understanding of the STEM and environmental careers that I’m interested in. The opportunity to talk to professionals and see the work being done in person has made me think more seriously about my future career.”
Ace also spoke positively about the opportunities the visit provided:
“The trip to Japan was amazing and memorable. Meeting so many new people that I otherwise would not have been able to meet was something I will cherish forever and thoroughly enjoyed.”
“It was an insightful experience talking to leaders within the nuclear sector and visiting the Fukushima nuclear site was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”
“The trip helped develop my communication skills through working in groups with unfamiliar people, and presenting our work helped massively to improve my public speaking. Overall, it was a fantastic experience.”
As well as taking part in the programme, they also had chance to take in some Japanese culture including navigating the streets of Kamata. The students put their map-reading and navigation skills to the test as they tackled Tokyo’s extensive rail network, successfully making their way across the city. Covering the equivalent of a half marathon on foot, they visited a traditional temple, experienced the world-famous Shibuya Crossing, enjoyed breathtaking views from the top of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, explored the beautiful gardens of Shinjuku, and took in some of Tokyo’s renowned shopping districts.
Accompanying teacher Ms Fitzmaurice praised the students for the way they embraced the opportunity and acted as ambassadors for the school throughout the visit.
She said: “They were well-mannered, respectful and confident. They dealt with the language barrier with ease, worked incredibly well with their new friends and represented themselves, their families and us brilliantly. They made us very proud.”
The group also visited the British Embassy in Tokyo, attended presentations from leading experts and experienced many aspects of Japanese culture, helping them develop a broader understanding of global issues and international collaboration.
Ms Fitzmaurice described the visit as “a great week, an incredible experience and an absolute pleasure” and said she was delighted by the maturity, enthusiasm and professionalism shown by both students throughout the trip.
The experience has left Ava and Ace with lasting memories, new friendships and valuable skills that will support them in their future studies and careers, while serving as excellent ambassadors for St Benedict’s and the wider West Cumbrian community.
Mr Hamilton, Head of St Benedict’s Sixth Form commented:
“Ava and Ace were outstanding ambassadors for St Benedict’s throughout their visit to Japan. They embraced every opportunity, represented our school with pride and returned with invaluable experiences, new perspectives and memories that will stay with them for years to come. We are extremely proud of all they achieved.”
