Our recent trip to the First World War battlefields of Ypres in Belgium gave some students a moving, first hand look at history. Standing on the grounds where so many fought and visiting the silent cemeteries of Flanders brought the real human cost of the conflict into sharp focus. Visiting key memorials and Commonwealth cemeteries across the Ypres Salient offered a moment to pause and reflect on the sacrifices made by everyone, from frontline soldiers to dedicated medical crews. Seeing row upon row of headstones up close made a profound, lasting impression on everyone who attended. Thank you to all the staff who helped make this visit possible. It was a brilliant experience for everyone involved.
Sophia Year 11 Lister – In my opinion, it was an amazing opportunity and trip to Belgium. I believe we all learnt a great deal of the horrors and brutal reality of the First World War and actually had the chance to reflect and remember the sacrifices made by soldiers and people who participated in the war. I, personally, felt that it was an important trip, rather than learning in the classroom. It was much more impactful actually being in those cemeteries and seeing the amount of lives lost whether it was soldiers actively fighting or medical staff. Overall, I’d say it was a great learning experience and I wish more people had gone and hope that there will be further trips like this in the future.