During January 2018, 16 pairs of S4 students from Diocesan Girls' School and Heep Yunn School were given the opportunity to enrol in a local exchange programme where they could experience school life and learning in a different environment. The girls from HYS visited DGS from 10/1 to 12/1, while the DGS girls reciprocated the visit from 16/1 to 18/1. Both schools are notable girls' schools with a long history, aiming to educate girls to become women of excellence. Through the exchange programme, participating students were able to find the many similarities and differences between both schools, enabling them to learn from one another. It also broadened the horizons of DGS students to experience the different culture and learning style at HYS, as certain classes were conducted in slightly different ways.

During the three-day visit, we were lucky enough to be a part of HYS's funfair preparation. From making small souvenirs to setting up the booths, the 16 DGS girls helped prepare the game stalls of their respective classes alongside their HYS buddies and classmates. This was an eye-opening experience for many of us, reminiscent of our own DGS Mini-bazaar preparation. Many of us attended the funfair that Sunday to experience the unique atmosphere of the event. It definitely strengthened our bond with our buddies and added value to the exchange programme.

Members of the DGS choir attended a choir rehearsal of HYS's intermediate mixed choir. It enabled the choristers of both schools to exchange their views and interpretation of the music pieces before the music festival, serving as a platform for both choirs to communicate. Hopefully, this has improved the relationship between both schools and brought us closer together.

Our HYS buddies were extremely hospitable during our three-day stay on their campus. They welcomed us with a warm and friendly attitude, allowing us to feel comfortable in an unfamiliar environment. We were able to develop a strong friendship with our buddies, where we would share on various topics, including school life and our interests. With this, we had a better understanding of HYS and her culture. Also, we made plenty of new friends and widened our social circles. Hopefully, our friendship will last for a long time.

At this juncture we would like to thank both schools for organising this exchange programme. We will forever cherish the fond memories made during these six days, as we not only had a great time, but also gained a lot of new knowledge and cultivated special friendships.

Reported by: Phoebe Ho (4X)

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