At 4.45 am Friday 19th October 2018, students arrived at Woodham Academy awaiting the departure of the ‘London’ trip. After a trouble free journey the 39 students and 3 staff arrived in the capital at 11:10 am. The first activity of the trip was to take a guided tour of the Whitechapel area of London, focusing on the infamous undertakings of ‘Jack the Ripper’. The group arrived at their accommodation (the YHA Thameside) for a quick refresh and change of attire. The group were then dropped by the coach at Covent Garden where the students were able to sample life in the capital. They witnessed street musicians, magicians and comedians, along with the stalls at the Covent Garden market. From here the group made their way to the Wildwood Bar and Grill for their evening meal, a popular choice being pizza. Mr Zielinski even showcased his waiter skills when handing out the desserts. After a hearty meal, the students made their way to the Lyceum Theatre. The group were whisked through a side door (next to the ‘Stage Door’) and taken to the Royal Circle ready for the 19th anniversary performance of the ‘Lion King’.
Day two started with a fantastic breakfast and full room inspections before departure for the Tower of London. Once there the group boarded a Thames cruise tour and took in the sights of the capital from the River Thames. The Palace of Westminster, the London Eye, Tower Bridge were just a few of the iconic sights. After the tour the group made their way over to East London and the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. After a tour of the site and many photo opportunities the group were given free time to explore the vast array of shops and eateries that make up Westfield Stratford City. The group departed London at 18:30 and arrived back at Woodham just a little before 00:00 Sunday morning.
Mr Zielinski Head of Geography at Woodham Academy was quoted as saying “the London trip offers the students the opportunity to experience the various ways of life that make up the vibrant metropolis. London is a vital exam case study at GCSE and the trip provides students with unforgettable experiences which they can use to great effect in the exam hall”. Following the fieldtrip Megan Faith Ellwood a GCSE History student was quoted as saying “My favourite part about London was the Lion King because it was a phenomenal experience.” Education is predominantly about students achieving grades, but Woodham Academy aims to give all its students experiences and opportunities that stretch further than the classroom, developing them as people who can go into the wider world and live successful lives.
