MFL Trip to Barcelona

Our recent trip to Barcelona with 15 Year 9 students and 3 members of staff – Mr Orgill, Ms Beltrán and Mrs Mesa, was another fantastic edition of what has become our traditional annual visit. As always, the aim was not just to explore a new city but to bring the Spanish language and culture to life for our students, and they absolutely made the most of every moment.

The students threw themselves into the experience with enthusiasm and curiosity. From ordering food in Spanish to chatting with locals, it was great to see how much their confidence in using the language has grown after three years of studying it. They were respectful, engaged and eager to learn – a real credit to our school.

It was also lovely to see how much the group bonded throughout the trip. Whether they were exploring Gaudí’s iconic buildings, enjoying churros and ice cream in the Gothic Quarter or simply hanging out together at the beach and hotel swimming pool, the students built stronger friendships and shared plenty of laughs. For many, it was their first trip abroad without their families and they handled the experience with maturity, independence and good humour.

We are incredibly proud of how well they represented the school, not just in their behaviour but in the way they embraced a different culture and made the most of every opportunity.

Below, you’ll find a short testimonial from one of the students who joined us, as well as a reflection from one of my colleagues, offering a glimpse into what made the trip so special from their perspectives.

‘Our school trip to Barcelona was an unforgettable adventure full of culture, fun, and surprises. One of the highlights for me was visiting Parque Güell, where we saw the amazing architecture of Gaudí. We also explored the Gothic Quarter, with its narrow streets and historic charm.

Another breathtaking sight was La Sagrada Família. I was truly amazed by the size and intricate details of this iconic cathedral. We also went on a cable car ride, which gave us stunning panoramic views of Barcelona from above. At Las Arenas, we did some shopping and enjoyed the modern side of the city. Of course, we couldn’t miss the beach! We relaxed by the sea and had some delicious ice cream along the way.

But the most unforgettable part of the trip happened on the way back. I was lucky enough to visit the cockpit of the A320 airplane after asking the cabin crew. The pilots were incredibly friendly and gave me a full tour of the cockpit, explaining how everything works. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience and truly a dream come true.

Thank You so much’

Aishwarya 9G

'The Year 9 students had an incredible time on the school trip to Barcelona, where they immersed themselves in the rich culture of this vibrant Spanish city. Practising their Spanish, exploring lively streets, and marvelling at architectural wonders, the experience was both educational and unforgettable. A standout moment for many was visiting the Basilica de la Sagrada Família, where the breathtaking interior — illuminated by sunlight streaming through colourful stained glass windows — left students in awe. This trip was more than just a journey; it was an experience that will stay with them for years to come.’

Mario Orgill

Head of Maths Faculty and trip staff