A group of NEIA students, alongside Spanish teacher Maria Camacho and NEIA’s Director of Strategic Partnerships and Collaborations, Melissa Remley, recently participated in the Exchange Program with Escola L’Horitzo in Barcelona, Spain. This exchange experience took learning beyond the classroom and into the heart of one of Spain’s most vibrant cities. Hosted by Escola L’Horitzó, the program offered a unique opportunity for students to immerse themselves in Catalonian culture, history, and innovation while forming connections with their Spanish peers, who visited NEIA back in December, bringing the exchange full circle.
From the moment they arrived, NEIA students were welcomed with open arms, staying with host families who offered a glimpse into daily life in Barcelona. This homestay experience allowed students to practice their Spanish language skills in an authentic setting while also embracing the warmth and hospitality of their hosts. “Our host families and the entire Escola L’Horitzó community welcomed us warmly to Barcelona. The host students introduced us to the city, sharing its rich history and vibrant culture while helping us navigate our new surroundings,” said one student.
Throughout the program, students explored Barcelona’s rich history, marveling at architectural wonders such as the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. They strolled through the Gothic Quarter, delving into centuries of stories, and visited the Museu Picasso to gain a deeper appreciation for one of Spain’s most iconic artists. “Today, we dove into the world of the brilliant architect Antoni Gaudí, the greatest exponent of Catalan modernism. We visited some of his most iconic buildings and discovered his unique architectural vision,” said a student. Each excursion was more than just sightseeing – it was a living lesson in art, history, and culture.
One of the highlights of the exchange was the hands-on mosaic workshop inspired by Gaudí’s signature trencadís technique. Students tapped into their creativity, crafting their own mosaic pieces while learning about Gaudí’s influence on Catalan modernism. “In the afternoon, we returned to the school to learn about trencadís, a unique decorative technique pioneered by Antoni Gaudí. This mosaic art form uses fragments of broken tiles, glass, and ceramics to create intricate designs. After learning about its significance in Catalan architecture, we created our own mosaics, applying the techniques we had just studied,” remarked a student.
Students also explored the historical and scientific side of Spain and its connection to the classroom. They had the opportunity to visit the CosmoCaixa Museum, “A unique space in Barcelona where science comes to life through interactive experiences. We had a guided tour of the Universe Room, where we delved into the origins of the cosmos. We also visited the Flooded Forest, stepping into an ecosystem where we observed diverse inhabitants up close,” said a student. Additionally, they visited the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) and the Museum of Catalonia. “At the Catalonia History Museum, we continued our deep dive into the history and evolution of Catalonia. Located in the historic Palace of the Sea, the museum provided insights into Catalan culture from prehistory to the present day, illustrating how the Catalan identity has been shaped over centuries,” a student shared.
Beyond artistic exploration, NEIA students connected with their peers at Escola L’Horitzó through meaningful conversations and classroom collaborations. These exchanges enriched their understanding of global citizenship while offering an authentic space to practice Spanish. “While a lot of things in Spain are similar to the U.S., there are major differences that shape daily life. Streets are narrower, public transit is essential, and everywhere you go, old and amazing architecture greets you,” one student observed.
Sports also played a role in building connections during the exchange trip. “We went to a nearby school to play volleyball with L’Horitzó students, which was quite enjoyable. Afterward, we returned to L’Horitzo for a soccer match — unfortunately, we NEIA students lost 3-2,” they added. Whether through sports, music, or casual conversations, students from both schools found common ground, realizing that their similarities outweighed the differences.
The program also included a ride on the Telefèric de Montjuïc. “We took the Montjuïc cable car, soaring above Barcelona and taking in breathtaking views of the city, its mountain ranges, and its waterfront.”
After each excursion, whether to a museum or a historical landmark, students returned to Escola L’Horitzó and reflected on their experiences. Classroom discussions and projects allowed them to analyze the cultural, historical, and scientific insights they gained, connecting these lessons to broader global concepts. Whether it was unpacking Gaudí’s architectural innovations or examining Catalonia’s rich history, students were encouraged to think critically about the significance of their experiences and how they related to their own lives and learning journeys. This reflection process not only solidified their knowledge but also deepened their appreciation for the exchange.
The Barcelona Exchange Program exemplified NEIA’s commitment to real-world learning, providing students with the tools to navigate and appreciate diverse cultures. Through exploration, creativity, and connection, they returned home not only with a deeper understanding of Barcelona but also with a new sense of curiosity and a broadened perspective on the world. The memories and lessons from this journey will continue to shape their perspectives as they move forward in their academic and professional journeys. “This experience changed my perspective,” one student concluded. “I can’t wait to travel again and learn more about the world.”
We are excited to continue this partnership and look forward to hosting future Escola L’Hortizó students, as well as returning to Barcelona for another unforgettable experience!
