Students from St. John’s Sixth Form, EMS6, and Carmel College Sixth Form recently returned from an unforgettable trip to Washington, D.C., as part of the Turing Scheme. This exciting international experience gave students the opportunity to explore U.S. politics, history, and higher education, broadening their horizons and offering valuable insights into global leadership and academic opportunities.

The trip began on Wednesday, 26 March, as students set off from the UK to the U.S. capital, ready for a packed itinerary filled with once-in-a-lifetime experiences. On Thursday, students dove straight into the heart of American politics, visiting some of Washington’s most iconic landmarks, including the White House, the Pentagon, the Capitol Building, and the U.S. Navy Yard. These visits provided a unique insight into the institutions that shape the nation and the world.

Friday saw the group step into the world of higher education with a visit to Georgetown University. Here, they explored the prestigious campus, learned about international study opportunities, and engaged with university life. The day also included a trip to the Supreme Court and National Archives, where they witnessed history in action — seeing the U.S. Constitution and Declaration of Independence up close.

The trip wasn’t just about politics and academics, on Saturday, students enjoyed a day of cultural and recreational experiences, starting with a visit to the National Museum of Natural History. In the evening, they embraced an all-American tradition by attending a Washington Nationals baseball game, where they soaked up the electric atmosphere of U.S. sports.

Before heading home on Sunday, the group took in stunning panoramic views from the Washington Monument Observation Deck, a fitting way to reflect on an incredible journey before making their way back to the UK on Monday.

The Turing Scheme trip provided students with invaluable experiences, inspiring them to think beyond borders and explore future opportunities in international education and careers. A huge thank you goes out to the staff, organisers, and everyone who made this extraordinary experience possible. With memories to last a lifetime, our students have returned home more inspired, ambitious, and globally aware than ever before.