Find out more
There’s something remarkable that happens when a student steps off a plane in an unfamiliar country, surrounded by the unfamiliar sounds of a new language, the unique rhythm of a different culture, and the palpable presence of history. In October, Wellington College’s overseas trips gave pupils not just an escape, but an immersive experience that transformed their understanding of the subjects they study. This approach isn’t just about exploring new places — it’s about igniting the spirit of curiosity and fostering a type of learning that textbooks alone cannot achieve.
For Classics students, standing beneath the towering columns of Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples was a world apart from studying Greek mythology in the classroom. This year’s Classics trip to Sicily transported students into a living museum, where they could walk amongst the echoes of ancient Greece and Rome. The tangible thrill of standing in the shadows of temples, theatres, and mosaics at Piazza Armerina brought ancient civilizations vividly to life.
Experiences like a climb up Mt. Etna and a walk through the Greek amphitheatre at Syracuse engaged students not only with ancient history but with Sicily’s unique blend of Greek, Roman and natural wonders. Between historical explorations, they enjoyed the laid-back charm of Sicily, savouring gelato and beach time at Letojanni. This immersion into ancient sites allowed students to grasp the enduring impact of Greco-Roman civilization in a way no textbook could.
Meanwhile, in South Africa, our students experienced a very different kind of immersion—one rooted in service and shared community. The trip to Tiger Kloof School wasn’t about ticking off sightseeing destinations. Instead, it offered Wellington pupils an opportunity to connect with their South African counterparts through genuine partnerships and collaborative projects. Working side-by-side on community projects, from planting a mini garden to repairing a school climbing frame, Wellington students learned that leadership comes from empathy, respect and a willingness to listen.
Service trips like Tiger Kloof redefine what it means to learn. Beyond the surface-level connections made through shared experiences like dancing the gumboot dance or cooking a traditional braai, this partnership allowed pupils to see the world from a broader perspective. It emphasises that real learning happens when we open our minds and embrace the opportunity to understand, contribute and grow together with others, even when they’re from halfway across the globe.
For 20 of our Fifth and Lower Sixth Form students, the annual US Universities trip was a chance to envision their futures on American campuses. This year, the group travelled to New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC, touring some of the most prestigious institutions in the country, including Ivy League schools like Princeton and the University of Pennsylvania and liberal arts colleges like Swarthmore.
This experience was not simply about admiring architecture or ticking names off a list — it was about stepping into the shoes of a college student. From guided tours to Q&A sessions with current students, including OWs Maisie S (A 24) at Fordham and Chung Sze (Hn 22) at Swarthmore, our pupils gained invaluable insights into the reality of studying in the US.
Beyond university campuses, the group explored the rich history of Washington DC, with Mr Gutteridge providing expert commentary on iconic landmarks like the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. This intersection of academic exploration and cultural enrichment underscored the importance of connecting education with the world beyond the classroom.
While some students focused on academic futures, others honed their athletic potential during an immersive basketball tour in Ohio. This trip offered Wellington players a rare glimpse into the world of elite basketball, training and competing in the country where the sport was born.
The highlight of the trip was the time spent at the renowned SPIRE Institute, a world-class training facility that has shaped the careers of athletes like NBA player LaMelo Ball. Here, students underwent rigorous training sessions tailored to their individual skills, participated in physical and athletic assessments, and attended workshops on mental skills and sports recovery.
The group also experienced basketball at every level — from the electric atmosphere of an NBA game to college and high school competitions, where they observed the discipline and passion that drive players in the US. These moments challenged our students to reflect on their own training and ambitions.
As the United States prepared for its 2024 election, 20 pupils embarked on the biennial History and Politics trip to Washington DC. The visit immersed pupils in the heart of American democracy, offering unique insights during an election year — a time when the city buzzed with political energy and debate.
Students explored iconic landmarks like Congress, the Supreme Court and the Library of Congress, connecting with the principles of democracy. Viewing founding documents at the National Archives and reflecting on pivotal moments at the African American Museum and Vietnam Veterans Memorial brought history to life.
Beyond politics, pupils embraced the city’s vibrant culture — savouring local cuisine at Ben’s Chili Bowl and experiencing the excitement of a Washington Wizards basketball game.
In Calais, our pupils took part in a humbling and impactful service trip, aiding the refugee community through hands-on support and human connection. Partnering with Care4Calais, students spent days sorting humanitarian aid and providing services to refugees, helping with phone charging and refreshments. They gained insights into the humanitarian crisis, fostering empathy and compassion that broadened their perspectives on social responsibility.
In Berlin, our students explored the dramatic history of one of Europe’s great capitals. From the echoes of the Cold War to the shadows of Nazi Germany, the group explored Berlin’s complex past while reflecting on its resilience and transformation.
The tour traced the historic route of the Berlin Wall, connecting sites such as the Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. Students delved into Cold War history, learning about the division of Germany and the courage of those who attempted daring escapes from the East.
Highlights included visits to the Berlin Olympic Stadium and Sachsenhausen concentration camp, as well as the site of the Nazi secret police and SS headquarters, where pupils confronted the harrowing realities of Nazi Germany. The Jewish Museum combined a celebration of the Jewish contribution to German life with the heart-breaking story of the Holocaust.
A birds-eye view of Berlin from East Berlin’s iconic TV Tower and a lively bowling evening provided moments of levity, rounding off a deeply educational and thought-provoking journey. Exhausted but inspired, the group returned to the UK with a profound appreciation for Berlin’s place at the heart of world history.
These October trips underscored our commitment to experiential learning, providing our pupils with irreplaceable experiences that expand their horizons and bring academic subjects to life. For our students, each trip was an unforgettable journey and a reminder of how travel opens minds, fosters understanding and deepens their engagement with the world.
