At this festive time of year with thoughts of travellers from afar on a starry night we have been hosting their own guest from afar.

Lauren Bowie is staying with a local family on an exchange trip through Scouts, visiting from New South Wales, Australia.

As part of her six week visit Lauren has attended Oakhill College for two weeks as a pupil with her host sister Rachel Paiton who is a member of Clitheroe Smiley Explorer Unit. Lauren has been attending classes and wearing the distinctive Oakhill College uniform during the experience.

Lauren commented on the warm welcome she has received from everyone at the school which has made up for the freezing weather. Lauren did wonder if she would be snowed in and unable to attend school as this is not something she has ever experienced in Australia.

All the staff and pupils at Oakhill have been delighted to have this opportunity of hosting an international student and agree it has been a lovely experience with every one learning new things.