A Week in Poland – Exchange, Adventure, Real Connections
We set off as a group – and returned with new friendships, experiences, and perspectives..
This is perhaps the best way to sum up our week in Mrągowo, Poland.
Twelve students from our school had the chance to take part in the German-Polish exchange with our partner school in Mrągowo from May 18 to 24, 2025 – and it turned out to be a journey we won’t forget anytime soon.
An exchange that moves you – literally!
It was clear from day one: this wasn’t just about school, but about life. Together with Polish students, we explored the city, cooked traditional meals, discussed our future, and paddled kayaks across the lakes of the Masurian Lake District.
Whether cooking with recipes in German, Polish, and English, or talking about education and careers – we learned a lot from one another. About life in Poland, about our differences and similarities, and about ourselves.
Highlights of the week:
Kayak tour through Masuria
Pure nature, sunshine on our faces, water beneath our boats – and right in the middle, a group of young people who had just met. Teamwork, fun, and lots of laughter guaranteed!
Cooking brings people together
In German-Polish teams, we prepared traditional dishes – and not only had fun, but also intense language experiences. Along the way, we created a mini dictionary of kitchen vocabulary in three languages!
Insights into working life
What does vocational training look like in Poland? We visited a major automotive company and a luxury hotel – two exciting places to learn more about career opportunities in Mrągowo.
Remembrance & responsibility
A visit to the “Wolf’s Lair,” a site from the Nazi era, was a moving experience for all of us. Together, we reflected on history, responsibility, and reconciliation.
What remains?
The week in Poland was intense, exciting, and at times challenging – but above all, enriching. We made new friendships, broadened our horizons, and got to know Europe a little better.
Thinking about joining next time?
The organizing team will visit your class in the second half of the year to inform you about ways to participate.
The exchange will continue in 2026 – maybe with you?
A heartfelt thank you to
This exchange project was supported by the German-Polish Youth Office (DPJW), the Sanddorf Foundation, and the German-Polish Society of Hamburg e.V. – a sincere thank you for the kind support, both financially and in terms of content.
