The best thing about Island Life? Potatoes!

“Today has been a celebration of our visiting Thai students,” principal of the IW College, Ros Parker, explained. “During their three week stay with us, they have completed trips, and have experienced a complete immersive experience.”

IW High Sheriff, Graham Biss, welcomed the group of visiting Thai students to the Newport Minster on Friday, where they spent their penultimate day on the Island collecting their certificates and admiring the Minster’s historical grandeur.

Two students shared with us their opinions of Island Life.

For Tine, this was her first time in Europe, and she professed her love of the architecture and preserved history, saying: “We visited the Roman Villa too here, and I love the architecture and how well-preserved the history is. I just think it’s so nice, because back in Thailand, it’s not this well preserved. They try to modernise everything, so everything’s dull and grey. But coming here, it’s just so lovely to see all the beautiful plants, caves, the lovely churches and buildings. It’s amazing, really.

“And the people of the Island are so lovely! Even when we were lost, there were strangers who would offer help or ask us if we knew the directions.”

Sam found the trip to be a great time spent travelling with his friends, and when asked his favourite part, he said: “The food! The food here is amazing; I love it so much.” And his favourite food? “Potatoes!”

“I made lots of friends at Medina College, we will definitely keep in touch.” Sam concluded.

The visit has given the students the opportunity to tap into their English skills, and the unique experience of learning about a different culture and environment. The pupils stay with gracious host families across the Island, to help them get settled in the new environment.

“Next year, in January, we’re excited to be doing a trip with our students to Thailand!” Ros exclaimed. “It’s very different from the trips we’ve done before; we’ve never done a trip outside Europe. For a lot of our students, they’ve never left the Island, let alone gone abroad. When we arrive in Bangkok, they’re going to get the shock of their lives!”

Students were very excited to spend their last day visiting another iconic Island destination: The Needles.