German Exchange

Kelso High School languages department has run an exchange with a grammar school in Gelnhausen, a picturesque market town south-west of Frankfurt, for more than ten years. Each leg of the exchange usually lasts about ten days.

Kelso pupils normally fly from Edinburgh to Frankfurt and then catch the train to Gelnhausen where we are met by the host families. The visit is always very busy and great fun. We visit Frankfurt, Fulda and sometimes Heidelberg. There are communal sporting activities and a visit to the local hills for a long walk and, for many, the highlight of the trip, a few goes on the Sommerrodelbahn, a bobsleigh track.

On the return visit, we usually plan a day trip to Edinburgh and a very popular excursion to Holy Island and an afternoon playing games on the beach at Scremerston or Bamburgh. One of the exchange highlights is always the Scots/German night when all the families involved get together for an evening of dance, music and fun.

The cost of the exchange is approximately £180.

Visit the Grimmelshausen Gymnasium Gelnhausen website

French Exchange

In 2004 Kelso High school celebrates its 25th exchange with Orchies near Lille in northern France.

Each year our pupils travel to France on Eurostar, travelling through the Channel Tunnel and spending approximately 12 days in France with host families. There is always a packed programme on offer, including a day trip to Paris, shopping in Lille, bowling and visits to surrounding places of interest. The excursion to the World War I battle sites is particularly moving.

On the return visit, we usually plan a day trip to Edinburgh and a very popular excursion to Holy Island and an afternoon playing games on the beach at Scremerston or Bamburgh. One of the exchange highlights is always the Scots/French night when all the families involved get together for an evening of dance, music and fun.

The cost of the exchange is usually in the region of £130

Visit the Orchies town website