WILLIAM Edwards School in Grays have just returned from their school trip of a lifetime to Iceland! They won the trip in a competition run by school tour operator Halsbury Travel.
35 students and 4 teachers from William Edwards School travelled to Iceland from 23rd March – 26th March 2017.
Part of Halsbury’s 30th anniversary celebrations, the competition offered one lucky group the opportunity to travel to Iceland at 1980’s prices. So, although a trip like this would normally cost around £699pp, the group paid just £259pp.
During their four day trip, the group explored the geography of Iceland’s South Coast, as well as the famous Golden Circle. They saw waterfalls, glaciers, volcanoes and geysers, and even bathed in the iconic Blue Lagoon.
‘I really enjoyed the trip because it made me feel more independent. My favourite part of the trip was the Blue Lagoon, because it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.’ Student, William Edwards School
The students, all currently in Year 9, were awe-struck by Iceland’s incredible landscape and really engaged with this experience of learning outside the classroom. For some, this was their first time abroad without their families. Although several were initially apprehensive, by the end of the trip most didn’t want to leave!
‘I don’t want to go home, although I can’t wait to tell everyone about it!’ Student, William Edwards School
Throughout the tour they were accompanied by experienced guide and former geography teacher, Ian K Hardie from GT Travel, who explained to them the geography behind what they were seeing. Ian’s passion for the subject really rubbed off on the students, who listened intently to everything he had to say.
The trip has really helped my interest in geography because sometimes in class you’re a bit bored, but once you go out and see it, you really get into it.’ Student, William Edwards School
‘You can paint a picture in your mind because you’re there seeing it, doing it and being a geographer.’ Student, William Edwards School
Karen Hewlett, the teacher that entered the competition says:
‘If I could, I would do this every day of the week – it’s way better than being in the classroom because the students can experience it first-hand. It’s not been the case that we’ve had to explain things several times, they’ve got it immediately because they can actually see it and experience it for themselves.’ Karen Hewlett, Department Leader of Geography, William Edwards School
