Their visit has been organised through the Plymouth Ghana Link and relationships between their schools, Devonport High School for Girls and Lipson Community College.

“This place is very homely; I do not feel like I am in a different land – apart from the temperature,” said Vanessa Bart-Plange, aged 18, adding that she had really connected with her host family in Plymouth.

“We are really close and just like a real family. I do not feel like an outsider.”

Joining Vanessa on the trip of a lifetime are Priscilla Owusu, 18, and Sylvia Tawiah-Eshun, aged 17.

They have all described their adventure to the UK as an amazing experience, learning about life for Plymouth teenagers compared to in their home city of Sekondi-Takoradi.

“I have been sailing, sea kayaking, going to the beach, coming to school and bowling,” said Sylvia who, along with Priscilla and Vanessa enjoyed her first flight on a plane to travel to Plymouth.

“I have learnt that Plymouth is a nice city and the people here are nice,” she said

“I wasn’t expecting to be welcomed like I was.”

The aim of the visit is to tell young people about life in Ghana and learn about their similarities and differences.

“The relationship between the teachers and students are different in Ghana,” said Priscilla.

“In Plymouth it seems more relaxed in the classrooms with students feeling like they can ask questions. In Ghana it is more strict.”

The Plymouth Ghana link was established eight years ago to boost cultural awareness and understanding. It also includes visits by medical staff to the West African nation, carrying out hernia operations and physiotherapy.