Last week a group of S3 pupils vistited Salamanca in Spain for a cultural and spiritual retreat. Two of the pupils who went on this trip reflected on their experience:
I have just returned from a school trip to Salamanca. I was given this great opportunity because I study French and Mandarin. Even although many of those around me were able to speak Spanish I didn’t feel left out, because the trip wasn’t just about that. It was also a very spiritual and cultural experience as we visited Cathedrals and many places related to St Theresa of Avila.
We also enjoyed meals in some local restaurants and rounded off our trip with a visit to the Bernabeu Stadium in Madrid. Fortunately I learned a small number of phrases and verbs in Spanish which will be useful for me in the future. I also had to use my communication skills to make new and lasting friendships with those on the trip that I hadn’t previously spoken to in school. In short I loved every minute of my trip to Salamanca and will treasure the memories for ever!
Declan Gallagher (3a4)
Last week my Spanish class and I travelled to Salamanca in Spain. After months of preparation from the staff, pupils and parents nothing could have prepared us for the week of laughter, activities, culture and spirituality that we experienced whilst there.
I believe I can speak for everyone when I say that we made lasting friendships and memories that will last for ever. We also forged bonds with our teachers and peers alike whilst on the trips to Cathedrals, La Pena de Francia and Avila. We celebrated Mass each day in the Chapel of the Royal Scots College where we were staying with Father Charles O’Farrell. At Mass we were each given the opportunity to read a bidding prayer in Spanish.
Our trip was unforgettable and teachers provided us with opportunities that we otherwise would not have experienced – for that I am very grateful!
Nuala McBride (3a2)
