Students from Japan have been experiencing life at Leeds Trinity University this summer.?

11 students from Shiga University in Japan spent three weeks at the University's International Summer School from 19 August to 6 September 2019.?

The students have taken part in intensive English classes and sessions on British history, culture, media and business, as well as organised excursions to Leeds, York and London. They have explored landmarks including the British Museum, Kensington Palace and Greenwich Observatory, enjoyed Afternoon Tea at Harewood House (below left) and taken part in a research trip to Kirkstall Abbey in Leeds.

Maia Sule, International Officer at Leeds Trinity University, said: "International education is a vital part of developing confidence and skills which are needed to succeed in today's global world, so we are thrilled to host students from Shiga University and enhance our partnership with the institution.

"Four of our students visited Shiga earlier this year for a Japanese Language and Culture Summer School, so we're delighted to welcome this group of energetic, hard-working and diligent students onto our campus which supports us in developing a global atmosphere on campus."

Dr Azumi Tamura, lecturer and international coordinator at Shiga University who is accompanying students on their trip, was impressed by the similarities between the two institutions, both in size and individual approach.

"I have been pleased to see how friendly and supportive all the staff at Leeds Trinity University are," said Dr Tamura. "I know our students have enjoyed the programme and taken a steady step forward in their English but most of all confidence and perspective on the future."

Maia added: "We are proud of the strong bond between our two institutions and hope that many more students will take up the exciting opportunity to study for a period in a different country."

Student Yuta Kitagawa (pictured right) said: "I've enjoyed the radio and TV sessions which we got to make our own radio news bulletin and record a live TV show. And outside of the programme, I have enjoyed getting a taste of English pub culture, being able to taste local beers which is not possible in Japan where the drinking age is 20, not 18."

Leeds Trinity University's International Summer School is organised in partnership with Leeds English Language School (LELS) and takes place for the fourth consecutive year this year.