Adventures at home and abroad
Another fantastic Senior School Late Summer Programme (LSP Week) at St Chris to end the school year.
This much-loved annual tradition is a highlight of the school calendar. It rounds off the academic year by giving students the opportunity to step outside the classroom, embrace new experiences, and celebrate the year alongside their peers.
Whether travelling across the UK and overseas, each group trip itinerary is designed to encourage independence, resilience and teamwork while allowing students to explore new places and cultures.
This year's programme saw students travelling to Devon, Yorkshire and the Lake District, France, Switzerland and Spain. From mountain trekking and water sports to cultural tours, scientific discovery and outdoor adventure, every group enjoyed a unique adventure packed with memorable experiences.
Year 7 (I Group): Boulogne-Sur-Mer, France
Year 7 (I Group) enjoyed a fantastic few days exploring Boulogne-Sur-Mer and the surrounding area. After a smooth ferry crossing, the group visited a local chocolate factory before rounding off the day with games on the beach. They also explored the fascinating Nausicaá National Sea Centre and tackled the high ropes.
Later in the trip, students spent time exploring Boulogne's historic Old Town and browsing the local shops before heading to the beach for an afternoon of sand yachting. The day finished with a fun evening of bowling, providing the perfect end to an action-packed visit.
Year 8 (II Group) and Upper Years: Yorkshire and the Lake District
Year 8 (Group II) were joined by some students from the Upper Years at St Chris, who were helpful in supporting them and also took on some more extreme challenges themselves!
They quickly settled into life in Yorkshire, beginning their adventure with team building and settling-in challenges. They then explored the region's famous caves, discovering dramatic underground landscapes and working together to navigate the route. Some of the older group even braved the abseil 120 metres down into Alum Pot, which was said to feel like “being on another planet!”.
As the sunshine finally arrived, the group headed to Coniston Water for a day of outdoor activities, making the most of the beautiful Lake District scenery. With plenty of teamwork and laughter throughout the trip, it was an excellent opportunity for students to challenge themselves while enjoying the great outdoors.
On the final day, students ended a day of adventures with our famous burger bar and apple pie, followed by awards and prizes. The upper years on their “Extreme” LSP week finished up with a challenging hike followed by wild camping by a tarn.
Year 9 (III Group): Morzine, France
After arriving safely in Morzine, Year 9 (III Group) wasted no time making the most of the stunning Alpine surroundings. Glorious weather accompanied the group as they trekked through the mountains, taking in spectacular scenery and enjoying the fresh mountain air.
After long days of walking and exploring, students cooled off by the river and enjoyed spending time together in one of France's most beautiful mountain resorts.
On the final day in Morzine, the group enjoyed a cable car ride to the top of the nearby ski runs (now mountain bike runs) to take in some incredible views. A week filled with activities, conquering fears and taking on new challenges!
Year 10 (IV Group): Barcelona, Spain
Barcelona offered Year 10 (IV Group) a perfect blend of culture, food and exploration. The trip began with lunch at the famous La Boqueria Market before a guided visit to the magnificent Sagrada Família.
Students later completed an adventure trail through the city and finished the trip having walked an incredible 63,000 steps in just three days.
The ideal trip for foodies, the group took part in a traditional paella workshop, where they learnt more about Spanish cuisine and, of course, enjoyed chocolate con churros. Later in the trip they also explored the Gothic Quarter and El Born on a food tour and had a tapas workshop.
Upper Years: Ilfracombe & Lundy, Devon
The Upper Years group enjoyed an unforgettable outdoor adventure in Devon. After stopping off at Oxford Wet n’ Wild Aquapark on the journey south, they arrived in Ilfracombe in time to enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach.
The days that followed were filled with exploring the spectacular North Devon coastline, spotting wild ponies and puffins, and taking in the breathtaking scenery. The trip included a horse ride across the beautiful landscapes of Mullacott Farm.
On the final days, they took on the challenge of SUP and surfing lessons which proved a fun and memorable end to the week!
Upper Years – Geneva, Switzerland
The Geneva trip combined science, politics and the stunning Swiss scenery. Students began by visiting the History of Science Museum and the Swiss Plasma Centre before continuing their scientific discoveries with a visit to CERN, where they learnt about pioneering research and saw the Synchrocyclotron, the first particle collider to operate at the facility.
The group later swapped science for international politics with a tour of the United Nations before enjoying some well-earned downtime swimming in the beautiful blue waters of Lake Geneva.
On the final day, they enjoyed a morning cruise on Lake Geneva before visiting cathedrals for some final sights of this wonderful city.
Another successful Late Summer Programme and students returned home with new experiences, stronger friendships and memories to last a lifetime. Thank you to all of the staff who worked hard to make these trips a success!
