Year 10s Enjoy New York
Our trip to New York this April was a truly unforgettable adventure with 61 Year 10s able take part and I am delighted to share a few reflections.
The students were a credit to the school from the moment we boarded our Virgin Atlantic flight and were excitable and full of energy for the days ahead. Their enthusiasm never waned, as we walked an average of 30,000 steps a day – always with a smile on their faces.
New York offered a feast of experiences, and the highlights were as impressive as the skyline itself. We marvelled at the city from the top of the Empire State Building at night, the dazzling lights creating a memory that will stay with us for a lifetime. The Top of the Rock gave us another breathtaking view – this time looking out over Central Park and the Empire State itself, a perfect opportunity for some iconic photos.
The students were captivated by our visit to Liberty Island, standing in awe before the Statue of Liberty and taking in the history and symbolism it represents. We enjoyed a scenic boat ride along the Hudson River, giving us a chance to see the Manhattan skyline from a different perspective and rest our legs after so much walking.
Our days were packed with fantastic and memorable experiences. We explored the vibrant chaos of Times Square, dined at classic American establishments such as Hard Rock Café and Bubba Gump Shrimp, and embarked on a fascinating tour of Madison Square Garden, where the students showed genuine curiosity and interest.
One particularly memorable day saw us walking through the city in the rain – yet spirits remained high.
I was thoroughly impressed (and touched) by the students' resilience and good humour as they laughed, chatted and absorbed the history during our walking tour, never once complaining despite the weather.
We were fortunate to enjoy two gloriously sunny days. On one, we travelled to Coney Island, a trip that offered a welcome change of pace and atmosphere, complete with sea views and funfair vibes.
Later that day, we strolled across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, soaking in panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.
We even ventured underground, catching a few trains via the New York Subway, which proved to be a real cultural experience in itself – slightly chaotic, always lively, and certainly memorable!
Of course, no trip to New York would be complete without a spot of shopping, and the students did not disappoint.
From souvenirs and T-shirts they returned with bags full of memorabilia and stories to tell.
Throughout the trip, the students' behaviour was exemplary. They supported one another, showed maturity and kindness, and demonstrated exactly why we are so proud of them. I would also like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the staff team who supported this trip – their dedication and positivity made everything run like clockwork.
All in all, this was a truly memorable experience that I know our students will look back on with pride and affection for years to come. It was an absolute pleasure to lead this trip and witness such enthusiasm, curiosity and joy in our young people.
Well done to each and every one of you – students and staff alike. You made New York 2025 a triumph.
Mr Royle