Over the half-term break, 38 of our Year 8 and 9 pupils embarked on an unforgettable trip to Barcelona, immersing themselves in the vibrant Spanish culture.
The adventure began in the picturesque seaside town of Vilanova, where the girls participated in a ‘Reto’ (challenge) activity, testing their Spanish language skills as they interacted with locals in real-world scenarios. With warm, sunny weather, they also took advantage of Vilanova’s beautiful beach, making cherished memories by the sea.
Year 9 student Sophie shared, “I really enjoyed the trip to Barcelona because I got to confidently practice my Spanish while experiencing the culture. Vilanova was lovely, and I loved interacting with the local people during the challenges.”
The following day, the girls visited the renowned Port Aventura theme park, where they enjoyed exhilarating rides and marvelled at the park’s spectacular Halloween decorations.
Their third day was packed with activities in Barcelona, beginning with a visit to the fascinating science museum, where they encountered a capybara and vibrant marine life in the aquarium. The girls explored iconic landmarks, including Gaudi's breathtaking Sagrada Familia and the lively La Rambla, where they had the chance to shop for unique souvenirs. The day concluded with a delicious meal at the Hard Rock Cafe and a fascinating flamenco show at a traditional ‘tablao flamenco,’ where the girls enthusiastically cheered with shouts of ‘¡olé!’ for the talented performers.
Isla, in Year 8, said, “I loved Barcelona. It’s my favourite trip ever! Navigating around Vilanova town was such fun, and the salsa dancing and theme park were highlights. The Sagrada Familia was stunning; I cherished every moment, even saying goodbye.”
Staying at Vilanova Parc, the girls were never short of entertainment in the evenings, enjoying activities such as swimming, basketball, football, and even salsa dancing. They also savoured authentic Spanish cuisine, delighting in dishes like paella and churros with chocolate.
By the end of the trip, the girls returned home exhausted but elated, having fully embraced the beauty of Barcelona.
Phoebe in Year 9 added, “I had a fantastic time in Barcelona with my friends. The rides at Port Aventura were amazing, and I loved the beach. The science museum was my favourite, especially the animals and the musical gadgets. A huge thank you to all the teachers for making us feel safe and happy, and to Michael from Spanish Star for keeping us hydrated!”
This trip was a wonderful opportunity for our pupils to grow, explore, and create lasting memories together.