A GROUP of sixth formers will visit Tokyo and Fukushima in Japan, meeting those involved in the regeneration of the country following the tsunani in 2011.

The 20 students, from West Lakes Academy, will spend eight days in the country visiting schools and meeting students and teachers.

This is the first exchange between the two regions in what is hoped to be the first of a long-standing relationship which aspires to have teacher exchanges in the future.

Ellie Parr, the academy’s head girl, said: “The Japan exchange will be an experience of a lifetime and I am sure it will help me develop my confidence and challenge me to view what I think is possible in my future.”

The group will meet the students who came to West Cumbria in August.

Head boy Curtis Hailes said: “I am excited about the exchange because I am keen to see how different our cultures are. I am keen to see how their strong community-focused society differs with ours where I feel we focus on individuality.”

The academy’s principal James Jackson said: “Our vision at West Lakes Academy is to change lives through learning – what our young people will see and experience on this trip will certainly give them exposure to a culture and memories that will stay with them for the rest of their lives as well as continue to forge strong links between the two areas.”

During the visit, which begins on Monday, the students will take part in classes of calligraphy, martial art Kendo, and music. They will also visit Fukushima Daiichi and the surrounding district and then they will present to a 300-strong audience the impact their experiences have had on their outlook living in West Cumbria.

The visit will be marked by the planting of cherry blossom trees which are a symbol of the regeneration efforts.