Despite Japan being over 6,000 miles away from Cornwall, three separate trips have been made by students and teachers at Camborne Science and International Academy in a trio of scientific, educational expeditions.

The Super Global Forum and the Junior World Summit in Kyoto, and the International Student Forum in Osaka, were held in January and February and saw 12 students take part in three once-in-a-lifetime visits.

“It has been a particularly busy time here at CSIA as our network of global connections continues to expand,” said principal, Ian Kenworthy. “We’re very proud to be invited to these internationally esteemed events and there’s no doubt that they provide invaluable experience and insight for all involved.”

All three trips offered CSIA students “a wealth of learning opportunities, actively participating in international discussion on crucially important topics.”

The first event, the Super Global Forum, saw five CSIA students visit Ritsumeikan School along with students from seven other countries around the world. “Our students delivered presentations in five areas, all aligned to the theme the Construction of World Peace,” said English teacher Tom Ashley. “Students enjoyed talks from guest speakers from the United Nations and Ritsumeikan University, and worked with other students through cultural, social and political differences, to look at potential solutions to global problems.”

Bryher Trathen in year 12 summed up the trip, in which students stayed with local families, saying: “I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to fly to Japan and learn about global opinions. The trip has broadened my knowledge and understanding of the world.”

The second event saw four year nine students and two teachers take part in the Junior World Summit in Kyoto, the only school from Europe given this privilege. “Alongside students from eight other countries from around the world, each school introduced themselves giving a presentation about the life and ethos of their school,” said PE teacher Martin Woolcock, “Our students were superb and showcased our academy and Cornwall in all its glory.”

Students were given an array of different learning experiences including Japanese lessons in music, science, English and maths, cultural visits to Kyoto, and various trips with their host families.

The third event, the Ritsumeikan Uji High School International Student Forum (RUISF) held in Osaka, saw three year 13 students and two staff members take part in a five day humanities conference which this year focused on Passion and Purpose in a Changing World.

The group experienced trips to Osaka, Kyoto and the surrounding temples and visited Nara, where they enjoyed feeding deer and exploring the town. CSIA students worked with others on projects about some of the most relevant topics facing humanity in the coming years.

“It is vital for students to expand their world-view, to be taken out of their comfort zone and become global citizens of the 21st century,” Mr Kenworthy. “We’re incredibly proud of our international programme which allows our students to forge connections around the world, to learn about other societies and customs, develop as individuals and be inspired by the multitude of opportunities which lie ahead of them.”