THE 11th year of a link formed between schools in and around Pershore and Ndola, Zambia, was marked with a three week visit from the African country this summer.

The Pershore Ndola Zambia Link welcomed the exchange to the UK as part of an ongoing charitable project.

Seven students and two members of staff from the African country visited Worcestershire for three weeks, returning home on Sunday, July 13.

During the trip they have been involved in a number of activities to share and experience cultural differences.

As well as presenting workshops to students in local primary, middle and high schools, the students also enjoyed spending time at their link school, Pershore High School, alongside trips to London, Wales and Stratford upon Avon.

Ruth Nambule and Mathews Munagobe, Zambian teachers, said: "The Pershore-Ndola Zambia link is a unique opportunity for students and staff in both school communities to develop and explore the cultural and social differences that they experience.

"The numbers directly involved are growing year on year which is a sure sign that the link is sustainable and beneficial to all involved.

"May the link continue to grow as big as the elephant.”

Zambian students also spoke at the school's presentation evening expressing how important they felt it was for them to learn about the British educational system and culture.

Paul Watson and Vicki Brown, Pershore High School teachers, added: "We are very proud of the lengths our students go in order to raise the money to support the Zambian leg of the exchange which ultimately allows the project to continue annually."

Inkberrow First School welcomed teacher, Faith Mutale, from its link school over the past decade, Goodnews in Zambia during the visit.

Headteacher Heather Thomson said: "She spent most of the time in classes with children sharing work on our joint project, food and how a good diet can help you to be a good learner.

"Faith also went to some of the events, cluster sports, swimming, tag rugby and shared traditional Zambian games.

"The children have really enjoyed hearing all about a culture so different to ours in many ways. I also took her to see the reindeers near the golf club as she thought they were make believe."