At the end of last year an excited group of students and staff from Kolbe and Emmanuel Catholic Colleges embarked on an unforgettable Italian Cultural Exchange, immersing themselves in the rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions of Italy. Their journey took them through some of the country’s most iconic destinations, including Rome, Pompeii, Sorrento, Florence, Pisa, and Assisi.
Throughout their adventure, students and staff had the incredible opportunity to check off numerous bucket-list experiences. They marveled at the grandeur of the Colosseum, tossed coins into the Trevi Fountain, strolled up the Spanish Steps, explored the awe-inspiring Vatican, visited the church where Maximillian Kolbe said his first mass, wandered through the ancient ruins of Pompeii, admired masterpieces at the Uffizi Gallery, and stood in the presence of Michelangelo’s magnificent David.
Beyond sightseeing, the group fully embraced Italian culture through hands-on activities that enriched their understanding and appreciation of the local way of life. They perfected the art of gelato making in Rome, crafted authentic Neapolitan pizza in Sorrento, refined their Italian language skills in Florence, and even conquered the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa with a thrilling climb to the top.
Visiting the sister school, the Liceo Properzio in Assisi, was an unforgettable experience, strengthening friendships and cultural understanding. The group connected deeply with students, sharing traditions, language, and daily life. These relationships foster mutual respect and broaden perspectives. Maintaining this alliance is essential for future collaboration, learning, and growth. Continued exchanges will enrich both schools, creating lifelong bonds and global citizens who appreciate diversity and unity.
The exchange group represented their colleges with respect, enthusiasm, and kindness, making meaningful connections through cultural engagement, courteous interactions, and a genuine appreciation for Italian traditions. This once-in-a-lifetime experience deepened cultural understandings, fostered lifelong friendships, and left each traveler with cherished memories that will last forever.
Here is what some of our students had to say:
Last year I was given the opportunity to participate in the Italian Cultural Exchange Programme, travelling and making connections with both new and familiar students. Whilst touring the cities of Rome, Sorrento, Pompeii, Florence, Pisa and Assisi, we learnt incredible aspects of Italy’s past and experienced its amazing present. – Riley (Year 11)
The Italian cultural exchange was a once in a lifetime journey that immerses you in art, culture and friendships, leaving you richer for experiences- more than you ever immagined. – Celina(Year 11)
The trip to Italy was a really engaging experience for me. I enjoyed immersing myself in the Italian school culture and making lifelong friendships with both the tour group and the students of the Liceo Properzio D’Assisi. I have unforgettable memories and friendships in Italy and hope to go back and see everyone again. – Rebecca (Year 11)
