Eight Trips, One Unforgettable Summer
Over the summer, an impressive 192 pupils immersed themselves in eight extraordinary school trips, venturing across Europe and Africa for adventure, learning, and unforgettable memories.
Each trip offered pupils a chance to discover new cultures, challenge themselves, and build lasting friendships through a mix of history, sport, language, and conservation.
Sporting Success and Team Spirit
York Cricket Festival: Pupils ended the season in high spirits, participating in the much-loved cricket festival hosted by St Peter’s, York, where teamwork and sporting excellence were celebrated.
Jersey Cricket Tour: The annual cricket tour saw matches against local teams and plenty of team bonding – including fun on the beautiful beaches of Jersey.
Preseason Hockey Tour to Eindhoven: Hockey players sharpened their skills with intensive training and friendly fixtures in Holland, bonding ahead of their busy season.
South Africa Rugby Tour:
The South Africa Rugby Tour was an unforgettable adventure, both on and off the field. The tour kicked off with an electric Friday night fixture against the Harlequins, and went on to include victories over Edgemead High and others. Off the pitch, pupils explored the Cape Canopy Tour, climbed Table Mountain, embarked on game drives to see South Africa’s wildlife, and embraced local culture at a traditional Braai. Visits to significant sites like the apartheid museum and community outreach activities rounded out a trip that built resilience, unity, and global understanding.
Duke of Edinburgh Qualifier Expeditions
Two groups undertook Duke of Edinburgh qualifying expeditions this summer. The Silver Qualifier took place in the stunning Peak District, where pupils completed rigorous training, planned their routes, and journeyed for three days and two nights, developing teamwork, navigation skills, and resilience. Meanwhile, the Gold Qualifier expedition challenged another group over four days and three nights in the scenic Brecon Beacons, further honing their leadership and endurance while embracing the majestic Welsh landscape.
Madagascar Conservation Expedition
A group of intrepid pupils traveled to Madagascar for a unique expedition in one of the world’s most biodiverse locations. Trekking through the Mahamavo forest, pupils conducted wildlife surveys by day (and night!), spotting lemurs, chameleons, and much more. Pupils worked with scientists and researchers, contributed to coral reef studies, and many earned their SSI Open Water Dive Certification to support marine research. Cultural experiences abounded, from Malagasy language workshops to local dance competitions around the campfire. The adventure ended in spectacular fashion, snorkelling alongside hawksbill turtles in the protected waters of Nosy Be.
A Summer of Growth and Connection
Across all trips, pupils embraced new skills, deepened global awareness, and created cherished memories. Whether hiking in Wales, chasing victory in sport, or supporting conservation in Madagascar, each journey captured the spirit of adventure, friendship, and discovery that make these school trips so special.
