Year 11 Geography students made the most of the glorious weather during their Jurassic Coast study skills trip, an invaluable experience ahead of their GCSE exams. The trip provided a unique opportunity for students to bring their classroom learning to life by studying coastal formations firsthand.

From the quiet darkness of a 1:00am departure to the bright lights of Paris and the magic of Disney, this was no ordinary school trip. It was four unforgettable days, packed with adventure and culture.

42 students and five staff set off in the early hours of Friday 20th of March, excitement buzzing as we made our way to Dover. After a smooth crossing the French countryside unfolded before us. Rolling fields, sleepy villages, and the growing anticipation of the days ahead. By afternoon, we arrived at our home for the weekend the charming Château De Grande Romaine, just outside Paris.

The Château was more than just a place to sleep. It was an experience in itself. With bunkbeds sports pitches and even a swimming pool, (which was sadly closed for the season), it quickly became our home from home. The first evening, after a hearty meal, we gathered around campfire leads by PGL staff sharing stories and songs.

Each morning began with continental breakfast and the now famous ‘DIY baguette sandwich’ crafted carefully for the day’s adventures.

Saturday took us straight into the heart of Paris. Our first stop was the iconic Eiffel Tower. Standing high above the city, students took in breathtaking views that stretched for miles. Lunch followed in a nearby park, with the tower watching over us a moment that felt truly Parisian.

Next came a relaxing cruise along the River Seine, drifting past landmarks, including the historic Notre Dame Cathedral. Student enjoyed taking pictures of all of the famous sites from the water.

The afternoon brought even more exploration with a hop-on hop-off tour, stopping at the grand Arc de, Triomphe, and the world-renowned Louvre museum. That evening, back at the Château, the group made delicious French crêpes.

Sunday shifted gears from culture to pure excitement with a full day at Disneyland Paris. From thrilling rollercoasters to colourful parades, souvenir shops to themed restaurants, the park delivered nonstop fun.

Monday morning came too soon. Bags packed and memories made, we began the journey home with one final stop at a French supermarket for last-minute snacks and souvenirs. A slight delay led to a late return arriving back at school at 2:40am on Tuesday 24th of March. Students were exhausted, but full of stories to tell.

In the last week of term, the library transformed into a celebration space, where awards were handed out and each student received a commemorative postcard, soon covered in messages and signatures. This was a lasting reminder of friendships, fun and a trip that won’t be forgotten anytime soon.

Paris gave us it’s beauty; Disneyland gave us it’s magic, but it was the shared experience that made this trip truly memorable.

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