A Celebration of Adventure, Discovery and Life‑Changing Experiences
Students across our Trust have enjoyed an extraordinary half term week of enrichment, embracing opportunities that inspire ambition, build confidence and bring learning to life. From major world cities to mountain ranges, battlefields and creative hubs, our students have taken part in experiences that go far beyond the classroom - and the impact has been remarkable.
Big‑City Inspiration in New York
Students from Carmel College, Darlington and St Michael’s Catholic Academy, Billingham embarked on incredible adventures in New York City. Highlights included Times Square, the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Snowfall, skyline views, Broadway‑themed dining and even an NBA game added to the magic.
Learning and Remembrance on the Battlefields of France
Carmel College students travelled to France and Belgium to explore the First World War battlefields - visiting Tyne Cot Cemetery, Vimy Ridge, Hill 62, the Wellington Quarry tunnels and the Menin Gate. Through reflection, prayer and powerful moments of remembrance, pupils gained a deeper understanding of sacrifice, history and the true cost of peace.
Faith, History and Culture in the Eternal City
Pupils from Our Lady & St Bede Catholic Academy, Stockton immersed themselves in the spiritual and cultural wonders of Rome. From the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel to St Peter’s Basilica, the Pantheon and Rome’s major basilicas, students deepened their understanding of both their faith and ancient history - with joyful moments at the Trevi Fountain and even lunch in Vatican City.
Snow, Skills and Alpine Adventure
This break also saw students head to the mountains for unforgettable skiing experiences. Our Lady & St Bede travelled to Bormio, Italy, while Carmel College took to the slopes of Austria. Across both trips, pupils developed resilience, confidence and determination - mastering new skills, tackling challenges together and enjoying breathtaking alpine landscapes. Laughter, progress and teamwork defined both adventures.
Tech Meets Magic at Disneyland Paris
Computer Science and Digital Media students from The English Martyrs Catholic School & Sixth Form College, Hartlepool visited Computing LIVE! at Disneyland Paris, exploring ethical hacking, artificial intelligence and the digital technologies behind Disney innovation. Their learning‑packed days ended with magical experiences including the stunning “Tales of Magic” nighttime spectacular at Sleeping Beauty Castle.
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Opening Doors, Expanding Horizons, Shaping Futures
From world‑renowned cultural landmarks to real‑world learning environments, every trip this term has offered students the chance to grow academically, spiritually and personally. These experiences - rich in discovery, challenge, reflection and joy - help shape confident young people ready to take on the world. Across our Trust, our students have truly embraced these opportunities, and their enthusiasm, maturity and sense of adventure have made this an unforgettable half term of enrichment.