CHILDREN at two secondary schools have been broadening their horizons.
A group of 43 Year 10 students from Downend School flew to Berlin for a visit in October.
Brunel House head and languages teacher Tony Rolle said: “Once clearing security in Berlin and finding our coach driver, we headed to our hostel to drop off luggage before making a beeline to Alexanderplatz for some well-earned refreshments.
“Our students were happy to take full advantage of seeing Berlin on foot and we made our way to the Reichstag building to start their quest of visiting famous sights.
“As a teacher, part of the attraction of taking students on a trip such as this is watching and hearing their reactions to a wide variety of experiences, often outside of their comfort zone.
“Our students were inquisitive and respectful of local customs, particularly following the instructions of the Ampelmann (the iconic traffic-light man).
“Travelling on both underground and double-decker trains with a large group of students is always a challenge, but thankfully not a single student (or staff member!) was left stranded at any point.
“The students will have their own highlights – possibly having a personalised chocolate bar made in the Ritter Sport shop – and will equally take some time to process experiences at Sachsenhausen concentration camp, but for me, a distinct moment of pride was watching a group of students collect unwanted packed lunches from our group and hand them (carefully bagged) to a homeless person we had passed earlier in the trip.
“I’m that everyone will have some unforgettable memories.”
Year 9 students from Mangotsfield School took an “inspiring cultural journey” to the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery in London.
Head teacher Hetty Blackmore said: “The trip offered a rich opportunity to explore artistic masterpieces and delve into the stories behind some of Britain’s most iconic figures.
“At the National Gallery, students were captivated by works spanning centuries—from the luminous landscapes of Turner to the bold brushwork of Van Gogh.
“The National Portrait Gallery provided a contrasting experience, focusing on identity, representation, and the power of portraiture.
“Students explored how artists capture personality and status, from Tudor monarchs to contemporary icons. Interactive exhibits and sketching activities allowed students to reflect on how portraits can tell complex stories about individuals and society.
“Beyond the galleries, the day fostered curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Teachers praised students for their thoughtful questions and respectful engagement, noting how the visit enriched their understanding of both art and history.
“This memorable trip not only brought classroom learning to life, it also sparked fresh inspiration for students’ own creative projects back at school.”