Innovative technology and sustainability were among the key learning focuses for a group of London college students and apprentices during a three-week trip to South Korea funded by the Turing Scheme.
Twenty-eight students from Capital City College (CCC) also had the opportunity to take in the rich history and culture of one of Asia’s most affluent countries, as well as improving their language skills during the immersive stay.
The CCC learners were hosted by Keimyung College University in Daegu before moving to Kyungbuk College in Gyeongbuk and then heading to the capital city of Seoul to round off their experience.
This was the third year learners from CCC have visited South Korea as the group continues to develop partnerships there.
Before embarking on the mobility experience, the students completed a 10-week course in Korean language, to ensure they arrived with some basic communication skills, and each student was paired with a local counterpart for the duration of their stay at each college, supporting a smooth transition to college life and a greater insight into Korean society and culture.
Language learning continued throughout the trip alongside learning about the country’s technological development and how it is being used to support sustainability.
Thrilling, amazing and inspiring
Learners took part in a study programme and completed a green growth project which involved researching, planning and delivering detailed presentations to highlight examples of good practice in the UK and South Korea.
This theme was explored further while in the capital when students visited City Hall and explored the Smart Seoul Exhibition, showcasing examples of smart manufacturing and an insight into the innovative and cutting-edge technologies used every day by Seoul’s population.
Cultural activities during their trip included Taekwondo, creative pottery and painting, visits to various museums, a traditional tea ceremony, a trip to the impressive Gyeongbokgung Palace – the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty. Korea Tourism Organisation generously gifted tickets to Nanta, the long-running international hit musical, in Seoul’s iconic Myeongdong district, an unforgettable experience for all.
A Level student Molly Langley, who is studying English Literature, Media Studies and Criminology said: “My experience was thrilling, amazing and inspiring. I felt so welcomed and cared for but also, I felt very independent being away from home and discovering a new country.
“There was not one day where I didn’t wake up and wasn’t completely excited for the schedule. It was the best feeling to experience Korea with everyone, feeling so welcome and included. This was the most unforgettable experience of my life and I will forever remember it.”
Karen Mukoko, who is studying A Level Physics, Art and Design and Geography, said: “I’m really grateful for the opportunity that I’ve had to experience a new culture, go to places that I’d never imagined I’d be able to go to and meet new people. This trip has been nothing short of exceptional.”
Aishenur Ansari, an A Level student studying Maths, Psychology and Biology said: “This trip has taught me so much and genuinely changed me forever in ways that I am still uncovering.”
Michael Martinez Llumiquinga, who is studying A Levels in Textiles and Fashion, Graphic Design and Psychology said: “This experience has been amazing to me. It has helped me develop in terms of confidence and personal growth and has expanded my knowledge further as I have learned a new language and it’s culture. It has impacted me positively in many different ways.”
Equipping learners to be successful
Yogeshwari Srinivasan, an A Level student studying Business, Graphics and Art and Design, said: “This amazing experience has really helped me develop as a person, I have gained so much confidence in socialising, meeting many new friends. I have enjoyed communicating through sharing cultures and languages.”
The mother of Public Services Level 3 student Adam Davies-Shahjahan said: “Adam has always been fascinated with the Far East and wanted to travel there, so when this fantastic opportunity arose, he couldn’t wait to apply.
“It really is an extraordinary and brilliant experience for him – and the staff, students and itinerary of experiences have all been exemplary. I would like to thank the Turing Scheme and the wonderful people in South Korea for this chance of a lifetime.”
Matt Wojtyniak, Deputy Principal Learner Experience at Capital City College, said: “CCC truly values the opportunities presented to our learners through Turing Scheme programmes. I was fortunate enough to accompany learners on this mobility and witness firsthand the impact an experience such as this has on their development.
“We should not underestimate the importance of international travel and intercultural experiences in equipping learners to be successful academically and professionally and also be positive and happy in life.”
