Every school year is full of learning, experiences and unforgettable moments. One of the most awaited by the students of 1st grade of Baccalaureate and the Diploma Programme (IB) of Casvi Villaviciosa and Casvi Boadilla is, without a doubt, the cultural trip at the end of the school year. This year, the chosen destination was Portugal. A country full of history, culture and breathtaking landscapes, which has allowed our students to live an enriching experience both academically and personally.
A JOURNEY THROUGH THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF PORTUGAL
For a week, our students have had the opportunity to visit some of the most emblematic cities of Portugal and its surroundings. The adventure began in Trujillo, where they were able to get to know the birthplace of great conquerors. They did this before crossing the border to Elvás, a walled city with a great historical legacy.
Lisbon was one of the highlights of the trip. The Portuguese capital welcomed them with its bohemian charm, iconic trams and emblematic monuments such as the Belém Tower and the Jerónimos Monastery. No less impressive was the visit to Sintra, with its fairytale palaces. Also Cascais and Estoril, where the Atlantic Sea showed its beauty in all its splendour.
The route continued to Fatima, one of the most important pilgrimage centres in the world. There, the students were able to learn about the history of the Marian apparitions. Coimbra, with its prestigious university, and Porto, famous for its cobbled streets and the majestic Douro River, were also part of the itinerary. Finally, on the way back, they stopped in Ciudad Rodrigo and Salamanca, two cities steeped in history and cultural heritage.
BENEFITS OF CULTURAL TRAVEL AS PART OF LEARNING
Cultural trips like this one are a fundamental tool in the educational process. This is because they complement the knowledge acquired in the classroom with real experiences. In this case, the trip to Portugal has allowed our students:
- To broaden their historical and cultural knowledge. Getting first-hand experience of the places they have studied in class helps to consolidate learning and better understand the historical context of each site.
- Promoting autonomy and coexistence. Being away from their usual environment forces them to better manage their time, responsibilities and interpersonal relationships, thus strengthening their personal development.
- Improve their language skills. Contact with another language and culture favours adaptation to new environments and the development of communicative competence.
- Creating unforgettable memories. Travelling with peers and teachers enriches the school experience and leaves a lasting impression on students’ memories.
At Casvi Villaviciosa, we are committed to a comprehensive education that combines theoretical learning with experiential experiences. This cultural trip has undoubtedly been a unique opportunity for our students. They have all returned with new knowledge, strengthened friendships and a host of anecdotes that they will remember forever.
