STUDENTS from across the globe were given a taster of the best activities in Hampshire – including those at the Winchester Science Centre.

Highfield and Brookham Schools in Liphook welcomed 39 international students at the end of July for a three-week taster of life at an English country boarding school.

The children, ranging in age from eight to 15 years-old, came from a variety of countries, including China, Korea, Japan, Russia, Poland, Belarus, Turkey, Spain, Italy and Switzerland.

During their stay, they studied future technology, robotics and space before heading off to Winchester Science Centre in Telegraph Way, which allowed them to engage with interactive displays and learning materials, concluding with a live space show in the planetarium.

Phillip Evitt, headmaster of Highfield School, said: "We were delighted to welcome an amazing group of students from such a diverse range of countries and cultures.

"It was fantastic to see their language skills improve over the three weeks, whilst also learning about a fun and exciting mix of topics with something of interest to everyone."

Across the three weeks, the students also enjoyed a variety of leisure activities, such as bushcraft, cookery, movie making and nature walks.

The Highfield Summer School, owned and managed by Highfield and Brookham Schools, is now in its fifth year, and provides this course annually, which includes English language tuition, as well as science and history lessons.

Qualified sports coaches provide introductory courses to a range of traditional English sports such as rugby, cricket, hockey, netball and tennis.

The parent of Ethan, one of the children attending this year’s summer school, said: “Ethan told to me that doesn’t want to leave.

"Now, I realise there must be magic in the school - not only your team’s professionalism, organisation and excellent execution, but also the care for all of the pupils."