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Clifton College Strengthens Mexican Connection

Clifton College has this week played host to a group of students and their English teacher from a school in Mexico City. Their first ever trip out of Mexico, the group comes from Escuela Scundaria Tecnica 99 which was destroyed by an earthquake in 1985 and which Clifton College first forged links with when it helped raise money for its rebuild.

Initially established by former Head of Spanish at Clifton College, John Gibbs - who now lives and works in Mexico City - the relationship has continued to strengthen over the years and John will be collecting an MBE from Buckingham Palace in November in recognition of the work he has done for Anglo-Mexican cultural relations.

Having worked closely with Amistad Britanico Mexicana, a foundation that helps support schools in Mexico supplying them with computers, books and the opportunity to travel to England, this trip has benefited students and teachers from both countries who have enjoyed sharing experiences and learning about each others cultures.

Philip Hallworth from Clifton College who helped arrange the visit said: "It has been a great privilege to host the group in the UK. When asked what they have found most different they always reply "Everything!". Whilst in Bristol the group has attended lessons at the College, explored Bristol and the surrounding area, and even cheered from the terraces at Ashton Gate as Bristol City beat Orient 2-1! They have spent time having an English seaside holiday in Devon and have explored the sights in Chepstow, Oxford and London."

Pictured from left to right are (back row) hosts from Clifton College Abby Hallworth, Arthur Shepherd, Cynthia Venegas the teacher from Mexico, Ben Sellick, Kirsten Gill and (front row) Mexican students Ivette Sanchez, Cesar Zuniga, Rodrigo Soto, Denisse Serrano.

19 September 2006

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