PUPILS at Dunoon Grammar School will have the chance to experience life in Germany next year as one of Scotland’s longest-running school exchange programmes returns in 2027.
The school’s German exchange, which dates back to the late 1980s, will see pupils from Dunoon and Bavaria spend a week living with host families in each other’s countries, experiencing different cultures and forging new friendships.
The programme was originally established under the leadership of Mrs Clark and will be led in 2027 by Mr Paterson, principal teacher of languages and music at Dunoon Grammar School.
The first leg of the exchange will take place in June 2027, when German pupils travel to Dunoon to stay with their Scottish partners and enjoy a programme of indoor and outdoor activities, visits and excursions.
Dunoon pupils will then make the return journey to Bavaria in late September, where they will have the opportunity to explore some of the region’s highlights while experiencing everyday life with their German host families.
The exchange has proved popular with German pupils, with places in high demand. Organisers hope to accommodate as many visitors as possible, depending on the availability of host families in Dunoon.
Importantly, pupils do not need to speak German to take part, as their visiting partners generally have a strong command of English. However, those studying German will have the added benefit of immersing themselves in the language during their week abroad.
Beyond the cultural and educational experiences, the exchange aims to help young people develop confidence, independence and resilience while building friendships that can last long after the visits have ended.
Over the years, the programme has provided generations of Dunoon Grammar School pupils with the opportunity to experience life overseas, and organisers are looking forward to continuing that tradition in 2027.
