¡Viva España! A Memorable Spanish Adventure
Earlier this term, a group of our students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Barcelona and Tarragona, immersing themselves in Spanish culture, history, and language. The trip was a resounding success, with students gaining not only knowledge but also confidence, independence, and lifelong memories.
We arrived in Barcelona on Friday morning and were immediately welcomed with a personal guided tour of the Old Town. Students explored the winding streets of the Gothic Quarter, learning about the city’s rich history and its deep connections with mainland Spain. Did you know that Barcelona was once the capital of the Crown of Aragon and played a key role in Mediterranean trade and politics? Or that Catalonia, where Barcelona is located, has its own language and cultural identity, distinct from Castilian Spain?
After the tour, students visited local markets, where they had the chance to practice their Spanish by ordering food and chatting with local vendors. It was a fantastic opportunity to apply classroom learning in real-life situations. We then strolled down the iconic Las Ramblas, ending at the Monument of Christopher Columbus, where students learned about his return to Spain after discovering the New World.
The next day brought what many students described as the highlight of the trip, a visit to the breathtaking Sagrada Familia. Students were captivated by the building’s unique architecture and symbolism. They learned how the basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudí, has been under construction since 1882 and is expected to be completed within the next decade. The stunning stained glass windows, blues and greens representing sunrise, and reds and oranges symbolising sunset, left a lasting impression. The building’s design reflects deep Catholic symbolism, and students gained insight into how faith and art intertwine in Spanish culture.
Later that day, students rolled up their sleeves to cook their own paella from scratch, one of Spain’s most iconic dishes. This hands-on experience allowed them to embrace Spanish culture through food, teamwork, and creativity.
Evenings were spent relaxing on Barcelona’s beautiful beaches, soaking in the scenery and reflecting on the day’s adventures.
On Sunday, we travelled to Tarragona, where students explored UNESCO-recognised Roman ruins. They learned about the Roman influence on Spanish architecture, infrastructure, and society, an influence still visible today. The day ended with a thrilling visit to PortAventura, one of Europe’s top theme parks, where students enjoyed adrenaline-pumping rides and well-earned fun.
Our final day was spent touring Camp Nou, the legendary home of FC Barcelona. Students explored the museum, learning about the club’s history, values, and global impact.
As we headed back to the airport, there was a real sense of pride. The students were absolutely fantastic throughout the trip. Their behaviour was exemplary, with hotel staff and tour guides praising their respectfulness, enthusiasm, and eagerness to speak Spanish. They represented our school with maturity and kindness, making us incredibly proud.
This trip was more than just sightseeing, it was a celebration of language, culture, and character. ¡Gracias, Barcelona!
Mr Parks
