Taking your language students on educational visits abroad is a fantastic opportunity to develop their language skills. Immersing them into a foreign culture will provide them with new and encouraging scenarios in which they can practice what they learn in class.
Here are three recommended destinations that are sure to provide your students with the inspiration and confidence boost they need to discover their true passion for foreign languages.
Berlin
As Germany’s capital, this city is home to some cultural hotspots, famous landmarks and wonderful entertainment, making it a brilliant location for a school trip. Make sure you pay a visit to these attractions to give your class the opportunity to use their skills.
Brandenburg Gate
The Brandenburg Gate is the most famous landmark in Berlin, and thus a must see on any school trip. It was commissioned in 1788 by King Frederick Wilhelm II, and has since been recognised as an important landmark as the site of several poignant and public events.
Wall Memorial and Checkpoint Charlie
This historical memorial is of huge importance in German culture, so it is highly recommended that you take your class here. The 1.4km long stretch of wall that remains of the infamous Berlin Wall is an extremely popular attraction among tourists as it acts as a symbol of Europe’s tragic past.
The best-known crossing point between East and West Berlin is now known as Checkpoint Charlie. Nearby there are museums and visitors’ centres where you will be able to find out more about the memorial.
Paris
Ah, Paris, a beautiful city with that unmistakable stylish flare. Students can mix in with the locals and attempt some French speaking at the quaint markets before heading over to one of the distinguished monuments for a taste of culture and history. Obvious choices include the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, but there’s something else in Paris that can really bring some magic to educational visits…
Disneyland
Spending a day immersed in the enchanting land of Disney is a perfect opportunity to wind down after experiencing the rich culture of Paris, but it can also provide students with the chance to speak a little French. Some companies will offer this as an add-on day to a full Paris trip, which is another brilliant incentive for both teachers and students.
Rome
The vast city of Rome has an immense history just waiting to be explored by keen students. It can be hard to know where to go first, but here are some of the best places for educational visits that will bring excitement and wonder to your class. Inspire young minds by delving into the ruins of one of the world’s most famous ancient civilisations.
Colosseum
To truly appreciate the ancient Roman way of life, you must explore the magnificent Colosseum with your class. Its gigantic structure is breath-taking – what’s even more impressive is that much of it is still intact, which makes imagining the gladiatorial fights and naval battle recreations that were staged there in antiquity all the easier for your students.
Roman Forum
The enormous pillars still standing today in the Roman Forum are simply spectacular, and the monument as a whole provokes much speculation about ancient Roman life. Contrasting to the modern city that surrounds it, the Forum is a fantastic historical depiction of ancient Roman culture, and perfect for a school visit.
St. Peter’s Basilica
If you happen to visit the Vatican City on your trip, make room on your itinerary for St. Peter’s Basilica, alongside the Sistine Chapel and Vatican Palace. Inside the Basilica you will find a sanctuary, altars, and Michelangelo’s Renaissance sculpture, ‘Pieta’. There is a wide selection of other museums around the area, so it makes for rewarding educational visits.
For the language-based trip of a lifetime, contact a specialist educational travel operator. With plenty of experience in organising the best and most informative school trips, you will benefit from their expert guidance and support every step of the way.
Author Plate
John Gardiner is the Managing Director of The School Travel Company, a tour operator specialising in educational visits for school and youth groups to the UK, Europe and beyond. As a father and avid traveller, John is very passionate about providing students with valuable and engaging learning experiences outside of the classroom. By sharing his expert advice with teachers, he allows them to inspire their students and bring their studies to life.
