There was the chance to experience the authentic Greek lifestyle when students from Springwood High School spent a week at TYPET Sani Chalkidiki Camp in Sani in Greece.

A group of 41 of our Year 9 students took part in the Mediterranean adventure, which included a range of different sports and activities, as well as plenty of time for exploration, rest, and relaxation.

Paul Donovan is a PE Teacher at our school, which is a member of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, and co-led the trip with Head of Technology Steph Beech.

“The students got to experience camp life, which for the Greek children at the camp was part of their normal school year,” he said. “They had the opportunity to take part in camp sports, arts and crafts, dance, along with swimming, and beach visits.

“We also spent a day on a boat trip along the peninsular towards Mount Athos, learning about the Greek monasteries, from when they were built and who lives in them, to how many Greek Orthodox monks live there.

“The pupils particularly enjoyed the beach visits, and spending time in the sea.”

It was the second time that the trip had taken place, following its successful introduction last year.

Mr Donovan continued: “I think the trip is massively important, and opens their eyes to a different way of life and cultural norms.

“When pupils go on holidays, they visit tourist spots, and enjoy hotels and their amenities; however, this trip is more like you are living within the community and away from tourism.”

He added: “There aren’t many trips that encompass nearly every subject in school, from sports to food, languages to all of the humanities subjects, as well as PSHE [Personal, Social, Health, and Economic Education], while developing their soft skills in leadership, resilience, and independence.

“The pupils leave with great memories, but also a new outlook of life in a different country.”