During the Advent Half Term 2023, 24 of our R15, R16 and Lower Sixth pupils embarked on a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Argentina. Over the course of our trip, we spent four nights in Patagonia, three nights in Buenos Aires, and a rapid 24 hours exploring Houston, Texas, before returning to the U.K. To give a first-hand account of all the activities we did, our Lower Sixth pupils Sulaiman A, Carys M and Humza A have kindly contributed their writing below:
Patagonia
The trip to Patagonia was overall an amazing experience, a once in a lifetime opportunity. We got to see what life was like for people in the Patagonian desert and got to build connections with many of the local people. The trip was exciting and culturally enriching as we learnt all about how the Welsh managed to take the land from nothing to what it is today.
An especially unique experience was whale watching. It was undeniably breathtaking! The majesty of those magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is something that stays with you forever, especially alongside your friends.
Visiting the penguin colony was undoubtedly a delightful experience. Observing these adorable creatures in their own habitat was both entertaining and educational. It's fascinating to witness their behaviour up close.
The Eisteddfod introduction was the cultural highlight of the trip. It was an amazing opportunity to immerse oneself in the Welsh tradition. Such events often provide a deep insight into the cultural fabric of a place. The event enabled us to witness a traditional Eisteddfod and was unbelievable to be a part of.
Perhaps one of the most impactful moments was visiting the local school. Connecting with the community on such a personal level, learning about their daily lives, and seeing how our little language has travelled so far was truly inspiring. It's these personal connections that were the most lasting impressions from the journey.
Our time in Patagonia seems to have been a perfect blend of nature, culture, and personal connections, creating memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
Sulaiman A - Lower Sixth
Buenos Aries
During our stay in Buenos Aires, we completed a wide range of activities. On the first day, we did a full city tour! We visited the Teatro Colon, the neighbourhoods of La Boca and Puerto Madero. On the second day in Buenos Aires, we went to a traditional Argentinian ranch where we were greeted with empanadas and maté (a traditional hot drink, a bit like herbal tea)! We then explored the ranch and learnt more about the culture of the area. We even watched a live tango performance and a live performance of Spanish singing. We also went on a carriage ride and enjoyed the beautiful landscape, followed by watching some impressive horse riding.
During the evenings in Buenos Aires we explored the impressive area and enjoyed some shopping and games. I have to say my favourite parts of our stay in Buenos Aires were the busy day on the ranch and relaxing playing cards at the hotel, as well as putting my Spanish skills to the test talking to the shop workers as well as our tour guides - it really was an amazing opportunity to practise. We had an amazing time and it really was a once in a lifetime experience!
Carys M - Lower Sixth
Houston, Texas
After the first long 9 hour flight of our return journey, we landed in Houston and there was no time to rest; we immediately boarded a bus to the International Space Center! We saw many interesting things such as the stages leading up to the moon landing, life as an astronaut and most notably we got to touch a real piece of the moon! It looked and felt as you would expect, like a rock, but it was still cool!
After leaving with our minds blown, we then travelled to ‘The Galleria mall’. I alway felt people were over exaggerating about how large things were in the USA but, after witnessing the grandeur of this shopping mall, I realised the scale of everything here was no joke. We spent time shopping, eating, relaxing and trying to forget that the flight that was soon coming would mark the end of the trip.
In the end, our trip to Houston was nothing short of epic. From blasting off into the cosmos at the Space Station to navigating the vibrant malls, every moment was a thrill. A mixture of learning, laughter and creating memories and we were all sad that it had to come to an end.
Humza A - Lower Sixth
The trip was incredible from start to finish, and filled with unforgettable memories our pupils will cherish forever. It was a pleasure to be able to offer our pupils this unique experience, and we look forward to running the trip again for our next cohort of Spanish, Welsh and Geography GCSE and A Level pupils in 4 years time.
Señorita Cooper
Spanish Subject Coordinator
