Sixth Form students taking Spanish A-level enjoyed an escape from the February gloom just before half-term, with a trip to the city of Valencia on the eastern coast of Spain. The group of 14 students from Years 12 and 13 enjoyed a whirlwind of activity that explored the culture, architecture, language and cuisine of the city.
Isla, Year 12, reported back:
During the weekend preceding half-term, as students studying Spanish A level, 14 of us visited some of Valencia’s most notable landmarks. Spain’s idyllic weather proved a pleasant change from England, and to make the most of this opportunity we indulged in the region’s culture through local cuisine and immersing ourselves in the language.
Included in the trip was breakfast at a spacious hotel, and various opportunities to explore the city. Among various events, we made a trip to the Fallas museum, the Oceanographic museum, and an informative paella making workshop to round it off.
A highlight for many was within the modern architecture of the Oceanographic; a 4D cinema screening of a nature documentary, followed by a trip to Spain’s biggest aquarium. We travelled to and from on Valencia’s metros system.
As for the food, on outings in breakout groups, among the variety of tasted dishes were Arroz Negro, involving delicious seafood, and Tapas ranging from Patatas Bravas to Pimientos Verdes. The communal paella making workshop left us with knowledge about traditional Spanish Tortilla, Paella, and Pastel de Naranja.
Overall, the trip’s experiences were informative and immersive, but most importantly enjoyable.
Ms Giusy Frate, Head of Spanish for KS5, said:
“This trip was a fantastic opportunity for our Year 12 and 13 students, continuing in our tradition of city breaks for Sixth Form linguists. The trip offered great benefits in expanding students’ cultural knowledge and oral confidence as they prepare for their end of course oral examinations. We enjoyed an exciting programme of activities, with visits to a variety of sites including Valencia Cathedral, the Fallas Museum and the Science Museum/Oceanographic, a paella-making workshop and a guided walking tour, which was the perfect way to explore the city.”
