Grade 6 Trip to the French International School in Kyoto
Celebrating German–French Friendship
To commemorate the anniversary of the Élysée Treaty, our Grade 6 students travelled to Lycée Français International de Kyoto for a joint workshop with Grades 7 and 8.
The memorial day of the 1963 treaty marks a historic milestone in European history. Signed by Charles de Gaulle and Konrad Adenauer, the agreement laid the foundation for reconciliation and long-term cooperation between France and Germany after decades of conflict. Today, it stands as a symbol of partnership, dialogue, and shared responsibility.
Learning Through Exchange
The workshop in Kyoto brought this spirit to life. Students of DSKI and the French students worked together in mixed groups, engaging in collaborative activities focused on communication, cultural understanding, and shared values.
Through discussions and interactive tasks, students explored:
- The historical importance of the treaty
- The meaning of friendship between nations
- Similarities and differences in school life and culture
- The role young people play in shaping the future
The atmosphere was open, respectful, and curious. Language barriers quickly dissolved as students discovered common interests and worked together toward shared goals.
More Than a History Lesson
The visit was not only about commemorating a treaty signed over sixty years ago. It was about experiencing cooperation firsthand. By meeting peers from another educational and cultural background, students gained practical insight into international friendship and collaboration.
Such exchanges strengthen intercultural competence, empathy, and confidence — skills that extend far beyond the classroom.
We thank the Lycée Français International de Kyoto for their warm welcome and look forward to future opportunities to continue building bridges between our communities.
