From Berlin to Krakow: A Journey Through History, Culture, and Sweet Memories

In the first week of December, 18 students and three teachers went to Berlin following the success of the previous year. The trip started with beautiful weather as we enjoyed the city on foot and visited the stunning Reichstag building with its Norman Foster-designed dome glass ceiling. We were treated to stunning clear views of the skyline. Day two was a big hit for those students and teachers with a sweet tooth as we took the group to a famous German chocolate shop, and students had the opportunity to make their own chocolate. There was a good deal of tasting throughout the experience.

A clear highlight of our time in Berlin was our visit to the Berlin Olympic Stadium, the stadium that had hosted the recent European Championships, as well as the historic 1936 Olympics games. Our GCSE History students enjoyed visiting a site that they had learnt about in the classroom. Additionally, a number of our students loved sitting in the same seat as the football superstar Jude Bellingham. The tour finished with our Performing Art students creating a mock press conference in the media suite.

After a week in Berlin, we made our way to Krakow (Poland) by train, this was a fun but chaotic experience, all getting on and moving our suitcases along the carriages, the students were brilliant and embraced what was a new experience for many.

Our three nights in Krakow had much more of a Historical focus as we visited Auschwitz Birkenau, one of the sites of the holocaust where over 1 million Jewish people were murdered during World War Two. This was quite an overwhelming experience but I imagine students will remember for a long time to come.

Staying in Krakow also allowed our business students to visit the Christmas markets of both Berlin and Krakow and consider the similarities and differences, the attractions on offer and the target markets of both settings.

Overall, we had a fantastic time and the students conducted themselves in an exemplary manner throughout, representing Braeburn excellently on the international stage. I wish to thank Fay Weston, Faiza Somji and Anitha Mugassa for their constant support before and during the trip.

Phil Croft