As half term draws to a close and we start to think about the upcoming break, it is a good opportunity to think about the benefits of going on school trips. For me this next week will be spent resting at home, but during my time working in Asia, we were fortunate to travel extensively and I know the impact that had on my family was significant, creating a better understanding of different cultures and providing opportunities to wonder at the exquisite examples of the natural world. 

At BGS, we firmly believe that education extends far beyond the confines of the classroom. It’s about broadening perspectives, fostering curiosity, and nurturing a deeper understanding of the world around us. That’s why we’re incredibly excited about the upcoming school trips that will take our students on journeys of exploration and discovery.

Over the next weeks, our students will embark on a variety of enriching experiences that will leave a lasting impact on their lives. From the slopes of Austria to the streets of Nice, France, and the vibrant culture of London’s West End, each trip offers unique opportunities for growth and learning.

Our ski trip to Austria will see over 100 students from Years 8 to Upper Sixth hitting the slopes, supported by many members of staff who will ensure our students have the best opportunities. Beyond mastering their skiing skills, students will learn valuable lessons in teamwork, resilience, and cultural immersion. For many they will be stepping outside of their comfort zones and the senses of fulfilment in achieving something new will be life shaping.

Meanwhile, in Nice, France, a group of 30 students will embark on a homestay experience, staying with French families and attending language school during the day. This trip promises to deepen our students’ appreciation for language and culture while fostering lifelong connections.

Back on home soil, our students will also have the chance to experience the magic of the theatre with a matinee performance of A Mirror: West End at the Almeida Theatre in London. This cultural outing will inspire creativity and spark meaningful discussions about storytelling and performance.

For those with a passion for science, our Physics Trip to CERN, Switzerland, offers a rare glimpse into the world of cutting-edge research. With a focus on real-world applications of physics, this trip will ignite curiosity and inspire future scientists.

Reflecting on the past few months, our students have already embarked on incredible adventures, from exploring design technology at Disneyland Paris to participating in the Cambridge Model United Nations, swim training in Lanzarote, to exploring Berlin and Valencia. Led by dedicated staff members these experiences have empowered our students to think critically, collaborate effectively, and engage with global issues in meaningful ways. As we look forward to the second half of the Spring Term excitement is growing in the Junior School as our younger students prepare for the annual resident trips.

As educators, we recognise the immense value of school trips in shaping well-rounded individuals who are equipped to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. Through embracing new experiences, our students are not only expanding their horizons but also laying the foundation for a lifetime of curiosity, empathy, and lifelong learning. We can’t wait to see the incredible growth and transformation that awaits them on their upcoming adventures. They also form new friendships, often across year groups as the power of the shared experience brings them together.  

Maya Angelou’s following quote: “Perhaps travel cannot prevent bigotry, but by demonstrating that all peoples cry, laugh, eat, worry, and die, it can introduce the idea that if we try and understand each other, we may even become friends.” perfectly encapsulates why it is so important that our young people grasp opportunities to see as much of the world as they can. We want them to begin to foster empathy, challenge stereotypes, and cultivate cross-cultural friendships. I hope travel, both near and far, encourages our students to open their hearts and minds, recognising the shared humanity that binds people together regardless of cultural differences.