Ysgol Hen Felin pupils flourish on their first international learning experience
In March 2026, eight pupils and four staff from Ysgol Hen Felin, a special school in Rhondda Cynon Taf, took part in a Taith-funded group mobility visit to Rotterdam in the Netherlands. For most of the pupils, this was their first time travelling outside the UK, making the experience both exciting and transformative.
The mobility, which was organised through International Links Global (ILG), gave them the opportunity to experience a different culture, develop greater independence and confidence, and learn alongside pupils at a partner special school in Rotterdam. Teacher, James Bailey, tells us more about their experience and shares with us a video they made during their trip.
How did the pupils feel about taking part in an international exchange?
In the lead up to the visit, there was a mixture of excitement and nervousness. For many, the idea of travelling abroad was something they had never imagined doing before.
Even getting to Rotterdam was a learning experience. Navigating the airport, going through security and boarding a plane for the first time presented new challenges that required pupils to step outside of their comfort zones. While some had understandable anxieties at the beginning, it was incredible to see how quickly they adapted and how proud they were of themselves as the journey progressed.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was watching pupils grow in confidence each day as they successfully managed new situations and experiences.
What activities did you take part in while you were there?
A key part of the mobility was visiting our partner special school in Rotterdam. Our pupils attended lessons alongside Dutch learners and experienced a different educational environment and approach to learning.
As a teacher, I found this particularly valuable. I observed calm and structured learning environments where practical, hands-on activities played a central role in developing learners’ independence and engagement. Seeing these approaches first-hand has encouraged me to reflect on our own practice and consider ways we can incorporate similar ideas back at Ysgol Hen Felin.
Since returning to Wales, we have begun exploring opportunities to expand practical learning experiences for our pupils, including outdoor learning and forest-school style activities.
Outside of school, pupils embraced a range of exciting new experiences. They travelled on Rotterdam’s tram network, took part in an amphibious aquabus tour, visited the zoo, explored local shops and cafés, and experienced daily life in a completely different country.
Many pupils surprised themselves by trying foods they had never tasted before, while others were fascinated by the practical activities taking place in the Dutch classrooms, including projects such as dismantling washing machines and working in the school’s kitchen facilities.
One of the most inspiring aspects of the trip was seeing a pupil classified as a Band 1+ student take part. Having experienced significant behavioural challenges in the past, this was his first opportunity to travel abroad, experience a different culture and meet new people. He embraced every aspect of the visit with enthusiasm and maturity, gaining confidence, independence and pride in his achievements. The experience showed him that past difficulties do not have to define future opportunities. It was wonderful to see the confidence, independence, and pride he gained from being given the chance to succeed.
What impact has the visit had on the pupils?
The impact of the visit has been significant and continues to be visible following our return to Wales.
For our learners, many of whom have additional learning needs, successfully navigating unfamiliar environments, routines and social situations was a major achievement. The trip challenged them in a positive way and gave them opportunities to demonstrate abilities that they may not have had the chance to show in a more familiar setting.
Many pupils returned home with an increased sense of self-belief and a genuine pride in what they had accomplished.
Since returning, we have seen stronger relationships within the group, with pupils showing greater respect, understanding and support for one another. Shared experiences helped strengthen friendships and teamwork, with some pupils now working together more positively both in and out of lessons.
The trip has also had a lasting impact on how pupils view new opportunities. Many have spoken enthusiastically about their experiences with family members and have expressed a desire to encourage their own families to travel and experience different cultures. For some, this was their first opportunity to visit another country, and it has inspired them to broaden their horizons and think more positively about the world beyond their local community.
Has the experience had a lasting impact on the school?
Absolutely.
The benefits of the mobility extended far beyond the pupils who took part. As staff, we gained valuable professional development through observing different teaching practices and exchanging ideas with colleagues in the Netherlands.
Since returning, we have been sharing what we learned through presentations, social media content and a YouTube video, helping to raise awareness of international opportunities across our wider school community.
Would you recommend an international learning exchange to other schools?
Without hesitation, yes.
This Taith-funded mobility visit had a profound impact on our pupils. For many, it was their first experience of travelling abroad, and they returned with increased confidence, broader cultural awareness and a real sense of achievement.
International exchanges offer so much more than a visit to another country. They provide opportunities for personal growth, independence, friendship and learning that simply cannot be replicated in a classroom.
For our pupils, the experience showed them that they are capable of much more than they may have believed. For staff, it provided valuable professional learning and inspiration. For the school as a whole, it has strengthened our commitment to providing meaningful international experiences for our learners.
By the end of the visit, every pupil reported feeling “very happy” about their experience – something that speaks volumes about the positive impact the mobility had on the group.
As one pupil summed up the trip,
It was an epic experience.
This simple but powerful comment captures the impact the visit had on the young people involved. When reflecting on the trip, he identified two particular highlights: flying on a plane for the first time and travelling on the Aqua Bus. As he had never flown before, the opportunity to board an aircraft, experience take-off and see the world from above the clouds was something he described as both exciting and unforgettable. The Aqua Bus was another standout moment, offering a unique experience that many of the pupils had never encountered before.
His enthusiasm when talking about these experiences demonstrates just how much the trip meant to him. Like many of the pupils, he returned with greater confidence, a wider perspective on the world and memories that will stay with him for years to come. Hearing him describe the visit as an “epic experience” highlights the value of providing opportunities that allow young people to step outside their comfort zones, try new things and create lifelong memories.
