Students and staff recently returned from an extraordinary trip to Peru, where they experienced the perfect combination of cultural discovery, community service, and personal growth.
The journey began on 27th November with an evening departure from the UK. After more than eleven hours in the air, the group landed safely in Bogota before taking their final flight to Cusco. Despite the exhaustion from travelling, the team arrived in good spirits and were greeted with a traditional welcome dinner that offered their first taste of Peruvian hospitality.
The highlight of the trip came when students and staff visited Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains. The breathtaking views and rich history of this UNESCO World Heritage Site left everyone in awe. One member of staff described the experience as looking ‘unreal’ and suggested it was like ‘looking at Curry’s expensive TVs’ – such was the stunning clarity and beauty of the landscape.
Beyond sightseeing, the group embraced meaningful community engagement. Students spent a morning at a local nursery where they painted colourful playground games and refreshed existing artwork. This hands-on project gave them the opportunity to make a lasting contribution to the local community whilst developing their practical skills and cultural awareness. The day continued with a pottery class, where students could explore traditional Peruvian crafts and techniques.
Throughout the trip, students also enjoyed recreational activities, including football matches where they could connect with local young people through sport. The group returned home with memories that will last a lifetime, having gained a deeper understanding of Peruvian culture, history, and community life.
