Alumni Stories: Lydia Polo

As Bell celebrates its 70th anniversary this year, we’re shining a light on the people who have been part of our journey – students whose stories span decades, continents, and life chapters. In the first of our Alumni Stories series, we reconnect with Lydia Polo, whose relationship with Bell began in the summer of 1989 and continues to this day.

“My name is Lydia, and I had the wonderful opportunity to study at Bell Cambridge some years ago, when I was just 18 years old—an experience that I still cherish deeply today.”

Lydia first came to Bell as a young student from Spain, enrolling in a five-week summer course at Saffron Walden. She had dreamed of studying in the UK since the age of 14, and after staying with various English families and researching several schools, Bell stood out. “Bell stood out for its reputation, academic quality, and warm atmosphere. From the very beginning, I felt welcomed—not just as a student, but as part of a global community of learners. My experience at Bell surpassed everything. The school, the warmth and dedication of the teachers, and the involvement of the entire Bell team made it feel like a big family.”

It wasn’t just the teaching that left an impression – it was the people. Bell’s international atmosphere, creative courses and cultural activities helped shape an unforgettable summer for Lydia. “The highlight of my stay that summer was the people I met. The students came from all over the world, and the teachers were passionate, supportive, and truly inspiring. I was amazed by the variety of courses and the teamwork. I remember a fantastic music course, a film workshop, and I still haven’t forgotten the films I worked on with my group: My Left Foot and When Harry Met Sally.”

Lydia’s time at Bell was filled with the kind of memories that stay with you for a lifetime. From spontaneous afternoons of laughter after class to Friday night parties and long evenings in the Common Room, every moment was lived to the fullest. “I met so many classmates who, over the days, became lifelong friends from all over the world,” she said. “At that age, everything is experienced with so much intensity. It was a summer I will never forget.”

Among the most cherished memories was a trip to London: “One of the most special was seeing the Royal Ballet perform in London. It truly felt like part of the magic of Bell. Not only was it educational, but it sparked some great conversations and friendships that have lasted to this day.”

Over thirty years later, Lydia found herself back at Bell – this time not as a student, but as a Group Leader, bringing groups of students students on Bell Cambridge programmes. “My stay at Bell Cambridge this year felt like a return to my adolescence. After so many summers working in other schools, coming back to Bell felt like coming home.”

Though the school has evolved since 1989, Lydia sees the same spirit that made it special to her all those years ago. “Since my time as a student, Bell has certainly evolved—but the essence remains the same. There’s still that same focus on quality education, cultural exchange, and helping students grow in confidence. It’s incredible to see how the school continues to innovate and adapt while staying true to its values.”

For Lydia, returning with her daughters felt deeply meaningful. “The best part of this year was returning to Bell with my daughters. I wanted them to experience what I did, and it was amazing to share those moments together as a Group Leader.”

Looking ahead, she doesn’t see her Bell journey ending any time soon. “I’m already looking forward to coming back next summer and many more after that. I confess, I’m addicted to Bell!”

As we reflect on 70 years of language education, cultural connection, and lifelong memories, Lydia’s story reminds us what Bell is all about – a place where students don’t just learn English, but grow as people and build friendships that last a lifetime. “To everyone at Bell Cambridge—past, present, and future—thank you for creating a place where people from all walks of life can come together, learn, and grow. I’ll always be grateful for the part Bell played in my story.”