Meet Francesca
Short Stay Boarder
Coutry of Origin - Italy
Tell us a bit about yourself
I am Francesca, I am from Genoa, Italy. I am a cheerful person who likes to socialise. I really like to listen to music, I enjoy cooking, art, learning and spending time with people I love.
What drew you to come and study in the UK, particularly The Royal School?
I decided to come to The Royal School to improve my English because I think language is protagonist of almost all jobs, and therefore so important. I also thought it would be a good experience for myself to improve and grow internally. When they described the school to me and I looked at the pictures on the website, I thought it would be the best fit for me.
How did the pupils and staff help you settle into boarding in the early days of this experience?
When I first joined the school they kept checking in with me, asking me simple questions like “how are you?”, “ how are you feeling today?” etc. At first I felt lonely but I soon made new friends.
What are the benefits of attending a smaller boarding school?
You get to know everyone and everyone knows you. You get the opportunity to meet people from all over the world and learn so many things about other cultures.
How has this experience contributed to making you future-ready?
I think that by living away from home in a different country, with different traditions in an unfamiliar context, speaking and practising my English everyday has been very useful for my future.
How has your English language knowledge and confidence improved since being a Royal pupil?
I think that my English has improved. I practice it daily. I have learned to write and have trained my ear to listen and understand different words. I am sure that by hearing other people talk I have learned many sayings that were previously unknown to me.
What have been the highlights of this short stay?
I really like the many activities that the school has on offer. I have enjoyed going to London to explore the capital. When I first started I joined the rest of the Sixth Form for a team-building residential trip at High Ashurst. We took part in many activities, including high ropes, mountain biking, archery and woodland skills. It was great!
Would you consider returning to the UK to study in the future?
I don’t know where life will take me, but never say never, maybe one day…
Can you summarise your experience overall?
When I arrived at the school, I felt a little bit lonely, but lucky for me I found some friends almost immediately. I am so happy of my choice to come to The Royal School. I have improved my English, I have seen and learnt about British culture, and experienced how different the school is here from my school in Italy. Teachers always encourage you to cultivate your passions at The Royal. I am happy because this experience has given me more self-confidence as I can be an anxious person at times. Here I have felt appreciated as people have noticed all of my qualities. Sometimes I felt homesick as I wanted to see my parents, my friends… but now, I feel sad to leave. I spent a very happy term here, I am grateful for all that I have learned and the people I have met.