Beyond the classroom: A year of expeditions at Dulwich College
In total, the College has supported more than 90 trips this academic year – reflecting our belief in the power of experience-based learning
D ulwich College pupils have experienced a year of extraordinary adventure, with expeditions ranging from Brighton to Berlin, Rome to Paris, and New York to China. Whether exploring the natural world, competing in sport, immersing themselves in different cultures, or expanding their academic horizons, pupils from every year group have had opportunities to learn and grow beyond the classroom. Academic enrichment has been at the heart of many trips. Geographers investigated coastal pro- cesses in Brighton, while biologists carried out fieldwork in Surrey. Physics students travelled to CERN in Geneva, and A level Art students took in the vibrant galleries, street art, and architecture of New York—an unforgettable experience that directly fed into their creative development. Year 10 Religion and Philosophy students stood in the shadow of the Vatican, bringing their studies to life in Rome, and artists in Years 10 and 11 explored the dramatic Cornish coastline in St Ives. Our language and cultural trips remain a highlight of the co-curricular calendar. From the boulevards of Paris to the markets of Granada, the year has been filled with immersive experiences. Spanish, French, German, Italian and Chinese trips provid- ed rich opportunities for pupils to practise their language skills and deepen their cultural understanding. The return of the China trip was a particular highlight — pupils explored both historic sites and contemporary cityscapes while engaging meaningfully with local language and culture. Sporting expeditions have provided exceptional opportunities for high-level training and com-
petition. Rugby players travelled to Langley School and St Joseph’s Festival, and our rowers trained intensively in Putney, Seville, and across Europe. Ski racing squads competed in Switzerland, Austria, France and Canada, while cricketers benefited from a performance camp at Millfield. CCF cadets took part in a full programme, including recruit and battle craft camps, a shooting weekend, and a leadership-focused October training camp. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme continues to flourish, with multiple Silver and Gold ex- peditions successfully completed. These trips challenge pupils physically and mentally, fostering independence, teamwork and resilience. Our younger pupils were equally active, with Years 4–6 enjoying their own ski trip to France, while boys in Years 7–9 took part in language exchanges, Classics visits, and enrichment activ- ities across the UK and Europe. The Classics department led a rich expedition to Naples and Rome, exploring ancient history in situ. End-of- year favourites such as the Scout Summer Camp in France and OA Sailing Week on the Solent brought the summer term to a joyful close. In total, the College has supported more than 90 trips this academic year — an extraordinary range of opportunities that reflect our belief in the power of experience-based learning. These expeditions are more than just travel; they build character, broaden perspectives and create lifelong mem- ories. Our thanks go to the staff who organise and lead these adventures, and to the pupils whose energy and curiosity make them such a success. ◎
by Simon Croucher, Director of Educational Operations
132
THE ALLEYNIAN 713
TRIPS
133
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker