St Benedict’s College is proud to continue its tradition of international collaboration, with three staff members and six Grade 10 boys currently participating in our prestigious exchange programme in England.

Since its inception in November 2022, this programme has offered our students a unique opportunity to broaden their worldviews. For five weeks, our delegation is living, learning, and playing alongside their counterparts at two historic English institutions: Stonar School and St Lawrence College.

The 2024 Exchange Delegation

We are delighted to have our staff accompanying the boys, fostering relationships with our partner schools and gaining valuable professional insight.

At Stonar School (Wiltshire):

  • Mr A. Barnes (Head of Sport/1st XV Coach)
  • Two Grade 10 students

At St Lawrence College (Kent):

  • Mr S. Lubbe (1st XV Coach)
  • Mr R. O’Donoghue (Prep School Head of Rugby)
  • Four Grade 10 students

A Holistic Educational Experience

This exchange is far more than a sports tour; it is a full cultural and academic immersion. Our boys have stepped directly into the shoes of a traditional English boarding school student.

  • Academic Rigour: The boys are attending daily classes, completing academic assignments, and writing tests, ensuring their academic growth continues alongside their cultural exploration.
  • Rugby Excellence: True to the Bennies spirit, our boys are making their mark on the field, participating in the English school rugby season and turning out for the host schools’ 1st and 2nd XV teams.
  • Boarding Life: Staying in the boarding houses provides a genuine feel for the heritage and camaraderie of the traditional English school system.

Looking to the Future

This initiative represents a wonderful opportunity for personal growth, independence, and the forging of international friendships. We look forward to seeing this programme grow over the coming years, further solidifying the bond between St Benedict’s and our global partners.

We wish our staff and boys all the best for the remainder of their five-week journey.