The inaugural RGS Guildford Student Ambassador visit to RGS Nanjing was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of international collaboration and the shared values that unite schools across the RGS family.
A group of Lower Sixth students from RGS Guildford returned from China with unforgettable experiences, new friendships and a deeper understanding of what it means to be part of a global school community. Throughout the visit, students from Guildford and Nanjing embraced opportunities to learn from one another, showing remarkable resilience, adaptability and openness as they navigated differences in language and culture.
Whether competing on the football pitch, where the hosts secured a 2-0 victory, or trying their hand at traditional pottery, students approached every activity with enthusiasm, humility and good humour. These shared experiences quickly fostered mutual respect and genuine friendships, highlighting the importance of empathy and collaboration in an increasingly connected world.
A particular highlight of the programme was the joint Student Council meeting, which brought together student leaders from both schools to discuss issues affecting their communities. The discussions demonstrated the strength of the relationship between the two schools, with students engaging thoughtfully, listening carefully to different perspectives and working together to identify positive solutions. The meeting reflected a strong sense of collective responsibility and showcased the confidence, leadership and social awareness of students across the RGS network.
The visit also provided valuable opportunities for the Guildford ambassadors to develop their leadership skills through a series of collaborative study sessions. Working with younger students at RGS Nanjing, they designed and delivered workshops that encouraged critical thinking, creativity and active participation. The success of these sessions stemmed not only from careful planning but also from the students’ ability to build rapport, communicate effectively and create an environment in which everyone felt confident contributing.
Beyond the classroom, students immersed themselves in Chinese culture through activities such as learning calligraphy, sharing meals with local students and exploring markets and historic sites in Nanjing and Shanghai. Everyday experiences, from navigating public transport to discovering local customs, provided valuable insights into life in China and broadened students’ global perspectives.
For many of the ambassadors, however, the most rewarding aspect of the visit was the opportunity to serve others. Supporting younger students, contributing to student leadership initiatives and helping to create meaningful connections across cultures allowed participants to make a lasting impact while developing important personal skills. The warmth, openness and generosity shown by students in both schools ensured that lasting friendships were formed.
The visit exemplified the vision of RGS Guildford International: creating opportunities for young people to learn with, from and alongside one another across national boundaries. By fostering understanding, leadership and meaningful cultural exchange, programmes such as the Student Ambassador initiative help prepare students to thrive in a global community while strengthening the bonds that connect the RGS family worldwide.
As is so often the case, however, it was the element of service that the Guildford students found most rewarding. Supporting study skills, helping with the student council, and learning how to put people at their ease gave some of the most rewarding moments. The openness and empathy from students in both schools allowed lasting friendships to be formed – which is of course one of the most precious elements of RGS school life.