Y11 Berlin - December 2024

There is no better way for our Year 11 students to conclude a busy term after their mock exams than by traveling to Berlin for a few days to immerse themselves in the Christmas festivities and explore the diverse history that this modern European city has to offer.

The students were exceptional and conducted themselves brilliantly throughout the trip. It was a pleasure to accompany them. While the main focus of our time in Berlin was its rich history, the students also clearly enjoyed spending time together, particularly during the evenings at the Christmas Market and in the Berlin Mall, where they sampled new foods and hopefully found some last-minute Christmas gifts.

Every student will take away something different from this experience. While their short-term memories of the trip may consist of the Christmas markets, breath-taking views from the Reichstag Dome, walking alongside the East Side Gallery, and sharing laughs with friends, I hope they will also remember deeper lessons. These include the courage of individuals like Georg Elsner, who stood up to the Nazis, the stories of those persecuted at Sachsenhausen concentration camp, and reflections on the divide between East and West Germany during the Cold War and its impact on people's lives.

My first big thank you goes to our guides from Connect Studies, Ian and Claire, who helped navigate our students through a busy schedule with their limitless knowledge and enthusiasm. Nothing was too much trouble for them, ensuring we made the most of our time in Berlin.

My next big thank you goes to our drivers from Rhonda Coaches, led by Alan. For an overseas trip to be successful, the drivers play a crucial role in ensuring everything runs smoothly. They consistently went out of their way to take care of us.

I owe a huge debt of thanks not only to our guides and drivers but also to my eight colleagues who worked tirelessly to ensure the welfare of our students throughout the trip, dedicating their time at the start of their Christmas holiday to help provide this experience. Special mention must go to my history colleague, Miss Barnes, who brilliantly led coach 2 and contributed many hours of planning before our arrival. This year, two-thirds of the staff were experiencing the trip for the first time, and the Berlin Experience comprises four physically and emotionally demanding days.

As I write this reflection during our coach ride back from Berlin, we are heading home for Christmas. I hope this gives you a glimpse of what we experienced on this trip.

Mr M-J