A living bridge
Two schools, two decades, and countless small moments that changed how people see the world - and each other.
What began in the early 2000s as a connection between a teacher and his former school, Erasmus‑Gymnasium in Germany, has grown into a partnership that shapes students, families, and teachers on two sides of the world.
Every second year, Erasmus students join us for homestays and classes, while in alternate years our students travel to Germany as part of the European Tour. Homestay is the heart of it – ordinary routines becoming extraordinary lessons in perspective.
It’s all about connection. The world isn’t as big as you think it is.Ms. Sharon Cashen Head of Modern Languages
The first hello
Exchanges start at the kitchen table. Conversations turn into friendships that outlast the return flight. Some families still share Christmas photos years later.
School days, real days
For eight to ten days, visiting students shadow buddies, join bilingual lessons, and navigate new routines. “Ordinary” in one place feels extraordinary in another.
My two-week exchange in Australia was an amazing experience. I felt very welcomed by my host family and quickly became part of the school community. I enjoyed discovering the Australian way of life, making new friends, and exploring the beautiful surroundings. This exchange broadened my horizons and gave me memories I will never forget. – Julia Rümens
Ideas that travel
Teacher conversations spark change: mobile‑phone policies, learning principles, even the idea for shared community spaces, such as Treetops, began over coffee.
Same planet, different Tuesday
Uniforms here, no uniforms there. Dinner at six – or eight. Politics taught in English at a bilingual school. The comparisons aren’t about better or worse – they’re about noticing and questioning.
Next up: Erasmus exchange students will come to HVGS in August 2026, alongside new visiting schools from China.