St. John’s Catholic School and Sixth Form College’s are celebrating another recent Turing Scheme trip, where a group of Year 10 students travelled to Halifax, Canada for a week of cultural exchange, academic inspiration, and unforgettable experiences.
The visit, funded through the UK Government’s Turing Scheme, offered students a unique opportunity to explore Canadian life, connect with local schools, and deepen their global awareness. From the moment they touched down in Halifax, the group embraced every opportunity with curiosity and enthusiasm. Highlights of the week included a school exchange visit to Island View High School, where students took part in lessons and conversations with their Canadian peers. It was a day filled with shared learning, cultural reflection, and budding international friendships.
The group also visited Dalhousie University, one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions. A guided tour and inspiring academic talk encouraged students to consider future global study and career pathways - aligning perfectly with the Turing Scheme’s aim to broaden horizons and raise aspirations beyond borders.
Outside the classroom, students explored Nova Scotia’s rich heritage and natural beauty. From the iconic Peggy’s Cove lighthouse to the historic Halifax Citadel, the group enjoyed a deep dive into the region’s coastal culture and history. Other highlights included a lively Harbour Hopper tour, the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic, and a memorable encounter with Gus the 102-year-old gopher tortoise at the Nova Scotia Natural History Museum.
Throughout the trip, St. John’s students represented their school and Trust with pride, maturity, and open-mindedness. BHCET would like to thank them for being excellent ambassadors and extend special thanks to staff members Mr. Hutchinson and Miss Kennedy for their dedication and leadership throughout the visit.
This opportunity is one of many Trust-wide initiatives aiming to prepare our students for life beyond the classroom, helping them develop the confidence, skills, and global outlook they need to thrive in an interconnected world.
