German students take part in work experience at South Tyneside school

Tom Dogarten and Florian Akrutrt both travelled from their home town, near Wuppertal, to take up their positions at Epinay Business and Enterprise School, in Jarrow

Their work experience placement, which lasted almost three weeks, saw the 16-year-olds take part in a range of activities supporting youngsters throughout their school day.

The duo also accompanied the pupils on trips to Gibside, Beamish and other local landmarks, including Jarrow Town Hall to meet the Mayor and Mayoress of South Tyneside, Coun Richard Porthouse and his wife Patricia.

The visit was organised as part of Epinay School’s International Schools Award with the British Council, aimed at recognising those schools which can bring an international dimension to teaching and learning.

Dianne Mountain, business development manager at the school, said: “The students have had a great time and the parents and staff have been really happy with them both.

“This is something we did a few years ago and we have just recently picked up on it again.

“The youngsters loved having the students in, and they have both shown an interest in coming back for a second time.”

The school also takes part in exchange visits and trips to Epinay-Sur-Siene for its traditional Christmas market.

Epinay also has links with South Africa and has someone from Sweden running in the Great North Run.