Newman University students immerse themselves in Japanese culture through Turing Scheme
Nine Newman University students have recently returned from an exciting month-long stay in Japan, facilitated by the UK government’s Turing Scheme and hosted by Newman’s partner university, Aichi University of Education (AUE).
The Turing Scheme, named after the renowned British mathematician and computer scientist Alan Turing, is designed to facilitate international experiences for students in higher education, further education, vocational training, and schools. These opportunities are expected to provide rich cultural exchanges and educational experiences that students might not otherwise have access to.
The Newman University students had a varied itinerary which included attending university classes alongside AUE students, cultural activities, and excursions to notable landmarks such as Tokoyawa Shrine and Osaka Castle. The students also took the opportunity to explore the cities of Tokyo and Kyoto independently during the weekends.
The cultural immersion included wearing traditional Yukata attire, learning basic Japanese phrases, and sampling local cuisine such as Takoyaki and visiting ramen, sushi and soba restaurants. The trip’s highlight was attending the famous Sumo Wrestling Competition in Nagoya on the final day.
Students shared their experiences and impressions from their journey: “It’s been very fun, the food is great, and the staff and volunteers here are wonderful. The weather is ridiculously hot and humid, but we are coping,” one student commented.
Mike O’Reilly (pictured), a second-year Primary Education student, added, “Japan is good. Not a big fan of the food, but it’s edible. I like the weather; it’s very similar to the UK but around 10 degrees hotter. People in Japan are incredibly friendly, and Anthony (the coordinator) is great. It’s more similar to England than I expected, considering it’s the other side of the world.”
The trip provided a unique opportunity for our students to engage deeply with Japanese culture and education, enhancing their global perspective and academic experience.
Lydia Gibbs, Overseas Experience Coordinator at Birmingham Newman University expressed her enthusiasm for the program stating, “Students have the chance to gain useful skills and experience, develop confidence and independence, and make lifelong friends – as well as having a lot of fun!”
Birmingham Newman University is one of four Catholic universities in England.
