Our BGS students have been travelling across the globe this year, exploring new places, taking on new challenges and putting their language skills to the test!
In February, our Year 10 Spanish students travelled to the vibrant city of Valencia, where they combined morning language lessons in a local language school with afternoons exploring the city’s rich heritage. Highlights included the City of Arts and Sciences, a behind-the-scenes tour of Mestalla Stadium, and tasting authentic paella in the bustling Plaza Redonda.
Over the Easter holidays, Year 8 French students embraced the culture of Nice, from touring the old city and eco-refuge Parc Phoenix to exploring the Picasso Museum in nearby Antibes. Alongside lessons in a language school, the trip offered plenty of opportunities to practise their French in real-life settings. Head of French, Liz Corrigan, said: “It’s been wonderful to see our pupils grow in confidence as they put their language skills to use.”
Also over the Easter break, BGS pupils headed to Tallinn on the Russian language cultural visit. Day one started with a walking tour from BGS Russian teacher Max Hartle where they saw the main sights of the city and discussed relations between Estonia and Russia. They packed in a lot of activities including a visit to the Museum of Occupation, bowling, language lessons and a visit to see military hardware at the Seaplane Harbour – with a particular highlight being a visit to a submarine.
Back in Bristol, Year 9 German students enjoyed a taste of German culture closer to home, sharing a traditional German breakfast before we welcomed 18 students from our partner school, Lise-Meitner-Gymnasium. The visiting pupils joined lessons, attended assemblies, and forged friendships with their Year 10 hosts. A return visit to Germany takes place every other year, where BGS pupils are always delighted to meet their new German friends again.
These trips wouldn’t be possible without the dedication and hard work of our language teachers, who create such valuable opportunities for students to experience different cultures and put their learning into practice. As well as building their language skills, pupils return with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and, importantly, a deeper understanding of the world around them.