During the half-term holidays, our KS4 and KS5 students embarked on an inspiring four-day journey through Italy, discovering Naples and its historic surroundings. From ancient cities to breathtaking coastlines, the students enjoyed an immersive experience, filled with learning, scenic beauty, and – of course – plenty of Italian gelato. Scroll down for photos capturing the amazing views and experiences they had!
Day 1: Exploring Herculaneum
The adventure began with an early morning departure from Manchester Airport, as our excited students headed for Naples. After landing, their first stop was Herculaneum, an ancient Roman town buried by the devastating eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD. Walking among the ruins, students marvelled at the preservation of villas, mosaics, and artifacts, gaining insight into what life would have been like nearly 2,000 years ago. They wrapped up this incredible introduction to Italian history with a well-deserved gelato treat in the evening.
Day 2: Capri and Sorrento
On the second day, students took a boat to the stunning island of Capri, renowned for its turquoise waters and glamorous appeal. A chair lift to Monte Solaro offered unbeatable panoramic views of the island and coastline, with students snapping photos and taking in the unforgettable scenery. They then enjoyed a walking tour through Capri’s stylish town centre, browsing its chic shops and picturesque streets. In the afternoon, the group headed to Sorrento, where they toured the charming town, sampling local specialties and enjoying another round of gelato as the sun set.
Day 3: Paestum, Mozzarella, and Limestone Caves
Day three offered a deep dive into both ancient Greek history and Italian cuisine. First, students visited the impressive archaeological site of Paestum, home to beautifully preserved Greek temples, where they explored the site and learned about its historical significance. The next stop was a mozzarella farm, where students tasted fresh mozzarella and even chocolate made on-site – a unique highlight of the trip! Finally, they ventured to the limestone caves of Pertosa, exploring the intricate cave system and witnessing some of Italy’s incredible natural formations. The day once again ended with a well-earned gelato.
Day 4: Mount Vesuvius and Pompeii
On the final day, students ascended Mount Vesuvius and stood on the rim of its crater, overlooking the region and contemplating the historical impact of the 79 AD eruption. They spent some time souvenir shopping before heading to Pompeii, the ancient city frozen in time by Vesuvius’s eruption. Walking through the ruins, students observed plaster casts of Pompeii's inhabitants and explored the city’s forums, temples, and preserved homes, bringing their understanding of Roman life to life in vivid detail.
The students returned home on a late flight, carrying unforgettable memories of Italian history, natural wonders, and cultural experiences. From ancient cities to spectacular views, this trip to Naples provided the perfect blend of education and adventure. Scroll down to browse through the incredible photos taken by students during their journey – the views alone are worth it!
