German and French flags were flying at the school last week, when students from Recklinghausen, Germany, and Lucon, France, were hosted by pupils and their families.

Lukas Ballhausen and Judith Dittmar, both 17, were two of the students visiting England from their school, Gymnasium Petrinium.

Lukas told the Herald: "It is the first time visiting here for both of us. I like it, it's really nice over here."

As well as spending time at Steyning Grammar, the students visited Brighton and Portsmouth. They also went on a trip to London.

Judith said: "It was a really busy city. The shops were huge. It was awesome."

Teacher Ute Strobel, who accompanied the students from Germany, said the trip had been a resounding success.

She said: "This exchange has been going on for 15 years. It is extremely successful. It is very popular with the pupils. They have enjoyed it a lot."

PICTURE – STEPHEN GOODGER S07105H8