News

Over the May Bank Holiday weekend, 35 of our Year 10 historians embarked on an unforgettable, sun-drenched trip to Berlin.

Despite an incredibly early 2:15am pick-up, the excitement kept everyone going. On arrival, after dropping bags at the hotel, the group dived straight into the city's rich history with a fascinating guided walking tour starting at the Tränenpalast.

The packed itinerary was full of moving, eye-opening, and educational experiences. The group took in incredible city views on two occasions: first from the famous Berlin TV Tower and second from the historic Reichstag building, the seat of the German parliament. They also explored life in East Germany at the DDR Museum, visited the Topography of Terror, and paid their respects at the Memorial to the Murdered Jews of Europe. An interactive evening was also enjoyed at the German Spy Museum.

During a profound visit to Sachsenhausen, the first concentration camp established under Heinrich Himmler in 1936, the students conducted themselves in an exceptionally thoughtful and mature manner. Before heading to the airport for the Sunday afternoon flight home, one final stop was made to explore the impressive Berlin Olympic Stadium. Students toured the grounds, tried out the running track themselves, and even explored the changing rooms where the England team prepared for the 2024 European Championship final.

After four busy, walking-heavy days, the group arrived safely back at school on Sunday evening. It was an absolute pleasure for the staff to spend time with such a fantastic group of students, who brought home a wealth of knowledge and were outstanding ambassadors and true role models for the academy throughout the trip.