Remarkable 30-Year link with Urawa High School, Japan 

Whitgift recently welcomed 20 phenomenally courteous, open-minded and academically-curious Japanese high school pupils on the UK-leg of its exchange programme with Urawa High School in Japan. This memorable exchange visit marks over 30 years of cultural collaboration between the two institutions. Urawa High School is a prestigious all-boys state grammar school in Saitama, just outside Tokyo, and is known for its academic excellence and longstanding international connections. 

Despite initial travel setbacks, including delays due to disruptions at Heathrow airport, the visiting Urawa students were able to spend the best part of a week immersing themselves in British life and education. During their stay, they participated in lessons, explored historical London landmarks, visited Brighton and engaged in a variety of exciting activities arranged by their flexible and welcoming host families and Whitgift’s Japanese Department. 

The exchange proved to be an enriching experience for all involved, with friendships strengthened and new perspectives gained. Whitgift students cherished the opportunity to share British culture with their Japanese partners and eagerly anticipate immersing themselves in Japanese culture on the return leg of the exchange in October 2025. For ten days, they will live with their Urawa partners, experiencing traditional customs, daily school life, and the vibrancy of Tokyo and Saitama. 

Mr Hunt, Head of Languages at Whitgift said “Traditional reciprocal exchanges are being phased out at many schools but we are proud to continue offering these life-changing opportunities for our students, enhancing their cultural understanding, improving their linguistic skills and enabling them to forge life-long friendships with families in other countries. We are very much looking forward to visiting our friends at Urawa in October.”