This study, conducted by Peter Grainger and Alison Willis, offers a fresh perspective on enhancing intercultural capabilities among preservice teachers. Its study explores the impact of a short-term overseas Wider Field Experience on preservice teacher education students. The destination? Peru – a country renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and diverse communities.

Intercultural capability, understood as the ability to engage effectively and respectfully with people from different cultures is, in today's globalised world, an indispensable skill, not just for students but also for teachers who play a pivotal role in shaping young minds. The study involved 22 preservice teachers who embarked on the transformative journey to Peru. Over a short period, these future educators immersed themselves in a culture vastly different from their own. The goal? To explore how this experience impacted their intercultural capabilities and their readiness to teach this vital skill.

The findings of the study were illuminating, demonstrating that by offering preservice teachers the opportunity to engage in immersive intercultural experiences, we can pave the way for a more culturally aware and connected society. As we move forward, it's essential for educational institutions and policymakers to take note of the promising results of this study and consider incorporating similar programs into teacher preparation curricula. In doing so, we take a step closer to equipping the educators of tomorrow with the tools they need to build bridges between cultures.

Dr Peter Grainger and Dr Alison Willis