On Monday 3 July 2023, in the middle of the night, when we should have been asleep, 42 (new) Year 9 and Year 10 excited pupils and 5 sleepy members of staff set off from Cirencester Deer Park School to embark on an epic voyage of adventure. Oh, the anticipation of what was in front of us for Enrichment Week 2023…

Our destination? Rheinland, Germany and all of its thrills. Our base for the week was Bonn, at a youth hostel full of enchantment and set on the edge of a wood. When we arrived, our pupils were bursting with excitement to unpack and prepare for the adventures that would lie ahead. Early to rise did not necessarily mean early to bed…

Tuesday morning broke and we were up bright-eyed (?) and bushy-tailed for the full and fun packed day ahead of us. Our pupils even learned how to make their own packed lunch. The day began with a much anticipated trip to Marksburg Castle, where pupils were treated to a guided tour looking at Germany’s defences throughout the ages; many were fascinated to learn about the dungeons and the various punishments used back then. Finally, with the heat beating down upon them, the group was allowed to explore the town of Boppard, where many ice creams were consumed. Later, they embarked on a picturesque cable car ride. Being their first opportunity to relax during the scorching hot day, many pupils enjoyed the tranquillity, with one teacher even overcoming their fear of heights and able to let go of the handles and eat a sandwich!

Wednesday took us to Cologne (Köln), where we had the opportunity to explore the main shopping area. After that, we took a mini cruise around the sights of Cologne along the Rhein, which all pupils found relaxing. The tour of the famous Cologne Cathedral was a hit, where we looked for particular items of interest on the stained-glass windows, including the famous monument of Cologne.

Thursday was the highlight for many pupils (and teachers). It was our trip to the amazing theme park called Phantasialand. All our pupils had an amazing time and it was wonderful to see some of them overcoming their fear of fast rides and giving them a go. Well done Miss Sherman!

Despite a 15-hour coach ride back home the next day the pupils were in high spirits as they recounted their various adventures from the week. I was struck by how there had been no complaints about the early mornings or the vast numbers of stairs climbed. All the staff agreed that our pupils had excelled and truly displayed the high standard of behaviour that we come to expect of them here at Deer Park. We had compliments on several occasions about the good standard of behaviour our pupils showed. The teachers were extremely proud of them.

All in all, the pupils learnt a lot, had loads of fun and have created memories and friendships that they will never forget. Not a bad way to spend a week really, is it? Eine gute Fahrt!

Frau Aubrey, Trip Leader

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