Welcome to the Residential Trip Booklet for the academic year spanning from October 2026 to December 2027. We are delighted to present an exciting array of residential trips carefully crafted to provide enriching experiences for our pupils.
At St Edmund’s College, we firmly believe in the power of educational trips beyond the classroom walls. These experiences not only enhance academic learning but also foster personal growth, cultural understanding, and social development. By stepping out of their comfort zones and exploring new environments, pupils gain invaluable life skills and broaden their horizons
Throughout the upcoming year, we have curated a diverse selection of trips, each designed to offer unique opportunities for discovery and adventure. Our dedicated trip leaders, along with experienced staff, will ensure the safety and well-being of all participants while facilitating memorable learning experiences.
Please note that the details provided in this booklet, including trip overviews, trip leaders, costs and dates, are subject to change based on participant numbers and potential fluctuations in travel prices We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in this regard.
We encourage you to peruse the following pages for a comprehensive overview of the upcoming residential trips. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact me (mtowns@stedmundscollege.org).
Thank you for your continued support in making these enriching experiences possible for our pupils.
Warm regards,
Marie Towns Educational Visits Coordinator
Educational Trips Golden Ticket for 2026/27
We will be operating Golden Tickets for pupils wanting to go on any of the trips proposed by the College over the next eighteen months
Golden tickets will be awarded to pupils who maintain high standards of behaviour (specifically no Thursday after school or Saturday detentions) over the course of the school year preceding the launch of the trip. Whilst all pupils are welcome to apply for any trip, those with a golden ticket will be given priority on any residential trips that are very popular and/ or oversubscribed.
It is hoped that the provision of golden tickets will incentivise pupils and have a positive effect on behaviour so that the allocation of places on the trips offered by the College is fair to all.
Nick Lee Charlie Upton Assistant Head Co-curricular Deputy Head Pastoral
Michaelmas Term 26
Lent Term 27
Trinity Term 27
Michaelmas Term 27
CCF Lent Term 28
Duke of Edinburgh
Michaelmas Term
AZORES
BIOLOGY & GEOGRAPHY TOUR
Date: 16th - 21st October 2026 (6 days)
Price: £1,750
Contact: mtowns@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Grammar - Rhetoric 2
Release Date: FULLY BOOKED
The Azores, a stunning Portuguese archipelago, offers an unparalleled opportunity for pupils to immerse themselves in the wonders of biology and geography Known for its lush volcanic landscapes, geothermal activity, and rich biodiversity, the Azores is a living classroom where science comes to life
This six-day adventure is packed with exciting activities that highlight the unique features of these islands Pupils will explore geothermal marvels like Lagoa das Furnas and Caldeira Velha, hike to breathtaking waterfalls, and study volcanic landscapes at Sete Cidades. Visits to a tea factory and pineapple farm showcase the region's agricultural heritage, while a whale-watching tour provides a close-up encounter with marine life guided by local biologists.
The trip also includes a journey into the Gruta do Carvão lava caves and a visit to a geothermal power plant, blending exploration with education. Ponta Delgada, the vibrant capital of São Miguel Island, offers a glimpse into the Azores' cultural and historical significance
With opportunities to witness crater lakes, lush forests, and dramatic coastlines, this tour celebrates the intersection of nature and learning. Pupils will return with a deeper appreciation of our planet's beauty, a strengthened connection to the environment, and memories to last a lifetime.
BERLIN
Date: 3rd-6th November 2026 (4 days)
Price:£950
Contact: cberkley@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Grammar - Rhetoric
Release Date: FULLY BOOKED
This exciting 4-day educational trip to Berlin offers pupils a unique opportunity to explore one of Europe’s most historically rich and culturally vibrant capitals Blending modern art, architecture and innovation with a powerful historical backdrop, the visit is ideal for subjects such as History, Politics, Art and Design and Languages. Pupils will travel by air from London, stay in centrally located accommodation, and benefit from guided tours, public transport access and a range of curated educational visits.
The itinerary includes iconic landmarks such as the Brandenburg Gate, the Jewish Memorial and the Reichstag, alongside immersive experiences like the Topography of Terror museum, Sachsenhausen concentration camp and the Berlinische Galerie. Pupils will also take part in engaging activities including a photo rally, a TV Tower and VR experience and a bowling evening, balancing learning with enjoyment.
With guided support throughout and a mix of structured visits and free time, the trip provides a memorable and enriching insight into Berlin’s past, present, and cultural significance.
DOUAI
Date: 11th-15th December 2026 (5 days)
Price:£1,200
Contact: fharveykeenan@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): French Grammar - Rhetoric students
Release Date:March 2026
Following two highly successful visits to our partner school in France, Institution St Jean Douai, another trip is planned for December 2026. This will be a wonderful opportunity for students of IGCSE French to meet and spend time with French students of their own age, as well as visiting the area at a magical time of year. This year we will also be spending a day in Paris, which will include visits to the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Elysées, and Eiffel Tower
Colleagues in Douai will be organising a range of activities in school for our students, to enable them to practise their French as much as possible. The Speaking Examination accounts for 25% of the marks for the IGCSE so this is a great opportunity to gain confidence in this skill
Other highlights will include trips to the beautiful cities of Lille and Arras, which both have Christmas markets, as well as ice-skating, big-wheels and carousels Travel will be by Eurostar, and accommodation will be in a hotel in the centre of Douai.
FOOTBALL TOUR
Date: December 2026
Price: £650 (TBC)
Contact: abowers@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Senior 1 XI Football team s t
Release Date: April 2026 - please note that this is an invite only tour
This exciting opportunity offers our Senior 1 XI footballers the chance to represent St Edmund’s College on an international tour to either Barcelona or Lille. Over the course of the trip, pupils will experience a professional-style football environment, combining high-quality coaching, competitive fixtures and cultural exploration.
The tour includes training sessions designed to challenge and develop players, alongside fixtures against strong local opposition. A highlight of the trip will be a behind-the-scenes stadium experience, giving pupils insight into the elite level of the game and inspiring their own development.
Beyond the pitch, pupils will enjoy a full-board stay in excellent accommodation, with opportunities to explore the local area and take part in team activities. Whether visiting iconic landmarks or relaxing with teammates, the tour provides a balanced and memorable experience. This tour is not only an opportunity to compete and improve as footballers, but also to build independence, teamwork and lasting friendships in an exciting international setting
CERN (PHYSICS)
Date: February 2027
Price: £400
Contact:iczajkowski@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Rhetoric & Poetry Triple Science students (priority given to Rhetoric)
Release Date: September 2026
Lent Term
This is a fantastic opportunity to visit the world-famous European Centre for Nuclear Physics Research, home to the renowned Large Hadron Collider (LHC) that straddles the Swiss-French border. It is the largest and most complex science machine and experiment ever built, and is regularly in the news as it pushes back the boundaries of our understanding of particle Physics and the very fabric of nature, and is currently searching for evidence of the elusive Dark Matter. The trip will include a guided tour by an expert researcher and time to visit the interactive CERN Museum and ever popular CERN shop We will stay at a hotel in France just a short walk from the facility.
We are delighted to be able to offer the trip to A-Level Physics students with remaining spaces made available to triple Poetry Physics students
NEW YORK TRIP
Date: February 2027
Price: £2,200
Contact:lwoodward@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Rhetoric
Release Date: April 2026
This Rhetoric trip has a very broad focus and we are proud of our ability to tailor an itinerary that appeals to students of all A-Level subjects. The trip promotes St Edmund’s Virtues and prepares students for life after Sixth Form
The trip includes excursions to some of New York’s most iconic locations, as well as attending talks and tours at Hershey’s Store, Madison Square Gardens and the United Nations Headquarters. Whether they are studying Business or Economics, Media, Politics, Geography, Languages, Literature or Science, or any other subject, throughout the trip students are encouraged to reflect on New York’s standing as a financial, cultural and tourist hub.
TRIP
Date: April 2027
Price: £1,540
Contact:kjones@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Form 4- Grammar & Poetry
Release Date: FULLY BOOKED
We will be skiing in Italy in the resort of Sauze d’Oulx and staying at the Hotel Gran Bosco. The trip will include many activities outside of skiing, with opportunities to learn new skills, make new friends as well as some time to relax and rest.
Located on the Italian side of the Milky Way, Sauze d’Oulx has always been regarded as one of Italy’s best-loved ski resorts, providing access to a wide variety of perfect pistes. The Milky Way offers access to over 400km of snow-sure slopes to suit all levels of ability.
STROMBOLI/ETNA
Date: 7 -11 April 2027 t h t h
Price: £1,300
Contact:nlee@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Syntax - Rhetoric
Release Date: March 2026
Where Earth Breathes Fire, A Sicilian Adventure. Discover the adventure of a lifetime on an unforgettable trip to Sicily, where geography, history and natural wonder come dramatically to life! This exciting journey will take students to the heart of the Mediterranean’s most dynamic landscapes, The Aeolian Islands, beginning with a thrilling guided trek up Stromboli. Famous for its regular, spectacular eruptions; lava fountains, Stromboli offers a safe yet awe-inspiring opportunity to witness volcanic activity firsthand. There will also be a cable car ascent of the majestic Mount Etna, Europe’s highest and most active volcano, where pupils will spend some time exploring the lava fields, craters, and breathtaking panoramic views and can fully appreciate the scale and power of the tectonic forces at work.
The adventure continues with a visit to the fascinating volcanic island of Vulcano, known for its steaming fumaroles and therapeutic mud baths as well as a descent into one of Europe’s most breathtaking gorges, Alcantara. Alongside the expert guides, students will also have time to explore the cultural heritage of these small and beautiful islands, all while enjoying Sicily’s warm hospitality and rich heritage. This is more than a trip, it’s an experience students will remember forever. Please note due to the nature of this trip, it will be physically demanding with a couple of long days walking and being on our feet Whilst it should be quite manageable for anyone reasonably fit, students need to be aware of this before applying.
Trinity Term
CRICKET TOUR
Date: June 2027 (Term time)
Price: £200
Contact: jevans@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Cricket teams U13
Release Date: April 2026 - please note that this is an invite only tour.
This exciting opportunity allows our cricketers to represent St Edmund’s College at the Emeriti Cricket Club Festival, an annual event hosted at Ampleforth College. Over the course of two days, pupils will experience cricket against other esteemed Catholic Independent Schools from across the country.
The festival kicks off with a thrilling day of 8-a-side fixtures, providing fast-paced action and an excellent chance for players to showcase their skills in a dynamic format. This is followed by a second day of traditional 11-a-side matches, played on Ampleforth’s cricket pitches.
Beyond the matches, pupils will enjoy a full-board stay at Ampleforth College, allowing them to bond with teammates and socialise with players from other schools The festival also provides leisure time to make the most of Ampleforth’s outstanding facilities, ensuring a well-rounded and memorable sporting experience.
This festival is not only a fantastic opportunity for our cricketers to compete at a high level but also to develop teamwork, sportsmanship, and lasting friendships
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in one of Europe’s most iconic cities - Paris!
Stand in awe beneath the magnificent Arc de Triomphe before climbing to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views across the city. From there, step into the vibrant heart of Paris as you wander along the world-famous Champs-Élysées, a bustling avenue packed with shops, cafés, and the unmistakable Parisian atmosphere
Football fans, this is your moment! Go behind the scenes at the incredible Parc des Princes, home of Paris Saint-Germain F.C.. Explore the players’ locker rooms, walk in the footsteps of your favourite stars, and even step onto the training pitch to take your very own penalty, will you score like a pro?
And the magic doesn’t stop there Experience the wonder of Disneyland Paris, where thrilling rides, spectacular shows, and your favourite characters bring dreams to life. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or soaking up the fairy-tale atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in this enchanting world.
From culture and shopping to sport and adventure, this Paris trip promises memories you’ll never forget!
BUDAPEST
Date: Enrichment week July 2027
Price: £1,100
Contact: rcumming@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Rudiments & Grammar
Release Date: September 2026
Get ready for an exciting adventure to Budapest, one of Europe’s most fun and fascinating capital cities! Packed with incredible sights, unforgettable experiences, and plenty of time to explore, this Enrichment Week trip promises learning with a serious dose of enjoyment.
Cruise along the Danube River, soaking up spectacular views of Budapest’s famous bridges and skyline, before heading up to Buda Castle for panoramic photo opportunities Discover the city’s stories through interactive visits that bring Hungary’s history to life, then unwind like a local with a visit to Budapest’s world-famous thermal baths. There’ll also be time to explore bustling markets, try local treats and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city.
From river cruises to castle views and relaxation Hungarian-style, this trip blends culture, fun and friendship into an unforgettable Enrichment Week experience in Budapest.
AUSTRIA - ELEMENTS
Date: Enrichment week July 2027
Price: £1,400
Contact: msimon@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Elements
Release Date: September 2026
The wonderful mountain range that makes Austria's Salzburger Sportwelt one of Europe’s finest ski regions, transforms in summer into a playground for adventure activities. The picturesque towns provide a base from which you can enjoy a superb choice of activities and excursions from high ropes to rafting, canoeing to canyoning; salt mines to Salzburg.
Over the course of the week, pupils will take part in a range of activities and visits including paddle boarding, kayaking, a high ropes course, a toboggan course, an afternoon in a water park, a visit to a salt mine and a visit to the city of Salsburg. Pupils do not need any previous experience of the activities. All activities are led by qualified instructors who ensure the safety of pupils at all times.
INDIA
Date: Summer 2027 (10 days) 8th-19th July
Price: £1,800
Contact: jhounsell@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Rhetoric 1
Release date: September 2026
Imagine stepping into a world that’s vibrant, challenging and completely different from home. On this trip to India, you’ll experience the incredible contrasts of daily life, visiting poor rural schools and well-resourced city schools in and around Bangalore, and seeing firsthand how education, culture and opportunity can vary so dramatically. You’ll explore cultural and historical sites across Bangalore, soaking up the colours, sounds and stories of the city And of course, there’s the food: fragrant curries, fresh breads and sweet treats that turn every meal into an adventure. This is more than a trip, it’s a once in a lifetime chance to broaden your perspective, connect with people from another culture and experience India with all your senses.
Michaelmas Term
ICELAND
Date: October 2027 (first week half term)
Price: £1,550
Contact: npitman@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Rudiments - Rhetoric 2
Release date: March 2026
Iceland is an amazing location for seeing every aspect of Geography / Science We will visit huge waterfalls surrounded by ice and moved by earthquakes, stand between two tectonic plates, climb a glacier (crampons included!), visit the capital city and hopefully see the Northern Lights. This will be the second time that I have organised this trip to Iceland The huge highlights for me in 2023 were watching geysers leap into the sky and sitting in the geothermal warmed lagoons whilst watching the northern lights. This trip is a must for any pupil who loves both subjects and wants to "live" the stuff we talk about in classroom.
BATTLEFIELDS
Date: October 2027 (second week half term)
Price: £400
Contact: cberkley@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Grammar & Syntax
Release Date: September 2026
This trip to Ypres, Belgium, will give pupils a real insight into the realities of warfare on the Western Front between 1914 and 1918. They will learn why Ypres became such a key battleground and how the war in this area developed into a long and gruelling stalemate. The visit will also explore what life was like for soldiers in the trenches - the conditions they endured, the challenges they faced, and the tactics used in battle
Pupils will have the opportunity to visit key historical sites, cemeteries, and museums, bringing their classroom learning to life. They will gain a deeper understanding of how the deadlock was finally broken and the immense cost of war, both in terms of strategy and human lives. This will be a thought-provoking and moving experience, helping them to connect with the past in a meaningful way.
MOROCCO
Date: December 2027
Price: £1,550
Contact: mtowns@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Rudiments - Rhetoric
Release date: March 2026
An unforgettable adventure awaits! This incredible 6day expedition takes pupils from the vibrant streets of Marrakech to the vast golden dunes of the Sahara, blending geography, culture and once-in-a-lifetime experiences
Trip Highlights:
Explore the bustling souks and stunning palaces of Marrakech
Cross the breathtaking High Atlas Mountains via the Tizi-n-Tichka Pass
Visit the iconic UNESCO site of Ait Benhaddou
Investigate desert ecosystems, oases and river valleys
A magical camel trek into the Sahara with an overnight desert camp stay
Discover the famous Majorelle Gardens and Atlas Film Studios
A Journey to Remember:
From wandering through colourful markets and ancient cities to trekking across desert sands at sunrise, every day brings a new adventure. Pupils will experience how people live in extreme environments while witnessing some of the most dramatic landscapes on Earth
Lent Term 2028
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST - SKI JAPAN
Date: April 2028
Price: £3,300
Contact: kjones@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(s): Form 5 - Poetry
Release date: April 2026
DUKE OF EDINBURGH
To receive the internationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh’s Award at Bronze or Silver level, participants must complete a range of activities across four sections:
Volunteering
Physical Skills Expedition
Gold Award also has a fifth section, the Residential
To facilitate achievement of these renowned Awards, the College arranges expeditions at each level To complete the expedition section and be able to receive their Award, participants must be available for and complete both expeditions at the relevant level The expeditions are a great chance to explore the outdoors with friends, and participants can choose their own group aim to help make the experience more fun –making video diaries, photo collages or investigating the local area are all popular choices!
We work with an Approved Activity Provider (AAP) to deliver safe and enjoyable expeditions for all. Group kit including tents and stoves is provided; additionally, the College has some items such as rucksacks and sleeping mats which can be borrowed free-of-charge
BRONZE, SILVER & GOLD AWARDS
BRONZE
Bronze Award comprises of three days. The first day focusses on expedition training and this is followed by a two day qualifying expedition in East Hertfordshire.
Training and Qualifying: April 2027
Price: £300 tbc
Contact:amartin@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(S): Grammar and above
SILVER
The Silver Award training and practice expeditions last three days and two nights. The practice expedition will take place in South Downs National Park and Qualifying in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park
Practice: May 2027
Qualifying: July 2027
Price: £350 tbc
Contact: nlee@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(S): Syntax and above
GOLD
The Gold Award expeditions each last four days and three nights. The practice expedition will take place in the Peak District and Qualifying in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park Challenging but exceptional!
Practice: March 2027
Qualifying: July 2027
Price: £400 tbc
Contact: nlee@stedmundscollege.org
Year Group(S): Rhetoric
CCF SUMMER CAMP
Date: Summer Holidays 2027
Price: £200
Contact: ccf@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Grammar - Rhetoric
Release Date: September 2026
The CCF participate in annual summer camps at the end of every academic year. These are either run separately (Army and RAF sections) or occasionally combined.
During the camps, Cadets take part in a full range of activities including overnight field exercises, shooting, orienteering, adventurous training, museum visits, team building and leadership activities and for RAF camps, flying Instruction is provided by a combination of St Edmund’s College CCF staff and regular Army and RAF instructors from the Regional Cadet Training Teams. The emphasis is on practising and developing skills whilst having fun at the same time. The camps are a fitting end to the year’s training and a great reference point for those continuing with the CCF the following year.
If there are pupils who wish to participate, but who are committed to the Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions taking place at the same time, we can look to make arrangements for them to join the CCF camp after their expeditions.
CCFADVENTUROUSTRAINING-WALES
Date: April 2027 (4 days - Easter Holidays)
Price: £250
Contact: ccf@stedmundscollege org
Year Group(s): Grammar - Rhetoric
Release Date: September 2026
Adventurous training opportunities are heavily subsidised by the MOD. This trip offers Cadets the opportunity to engage in a range of fun, challenging activities designed to take them outside of their comfort zone and develop resilience, teamwork and leadership skills. Activities are likely to include; mountain walking, orienteering, kayaking, canyoning and climbing
