Barrhead Composite High School (BCHS) had the pleasure of hosting a Japanese Delegation from Tokoro, Japan who visited Barrhead from March 6-13, as part of the Twinning friendship between the two communities. In the delegation were three students, Naqo Nakamura, Mako Ishida and Momo Yoshida, teacher Kenji Ueki and interpreter Miwa Nakadai.

Since 1991, the Town of Barrhead has had a Twinning relationship with Tokoro, Hokkaido, Japan. Through the years there have been many exchanges of people and cultures between these twinned communities. With the exception of the pandemic, delegations have visited Barrhead from Tokoro nearly every year and many groups from Barrhead have visited Tokoro.

One of the first stops of the delegation’s visit was BCHS on March 7. With a student population of nearly 700, BCHS is a stark contrast to their own school, which serves just 23 students and was a significant point of interest for the group.

“They were truly amazed by the size of our facilities,” shared a BCHS staff member. “The band room, in particular, caught their attention, as all of their students are involved in band back home. The senior high woods/construction lab, with its extensive equipment, also left a lasting impression.” The delegation also noted the history displayed in the school’s hallways, observing the numerous graduation composites showcasing years of student achievements.

Included in their visit to the school, were opportunities to participate in hands-on learning experiences. Two of the students joined a cosmetology class, where they tried their hand at hair styling, while the other explored the world of communication technology. Their teacher also attended a portion of the Rotary Music Festival in the BCHS Drama Theatre.

Later that afternoon, the delegation gave a presentation at the Barrhead Public Library, where they shared stories about their community, school, and personal lives with some grades 1-5 students from École Barrhead Elementary School (BES).

The rest of the delegation’s itinerary included the group being immersed in the Barrhead community. They enjoyed curling with local teams, touring dairy and bison farms in the County of Barrhead, shopping at local stores, and exploring the Barrhead Museum and Town Office, learning about Indigenous history and culture and the history of local government. They also participated in a quilting workshop, experiencing a traditional craft. The group also attended a Friendship Dinner at the Senior Drop-In Centre on March 9, fostering connections with local residents.

On Tuesday, March 11th, the delegation returned to BCHS for their final day, joining host students in the library and art classes.

This cultural exchange provided a valuable learning experience for both the visiting delegation and the Barrhead community, fostering understanding and appreciation for different ways of life.