Glasgow school's 'unforgettable' trip after £27k boost

Glasgow Times

19 hours ago

The primary seven children from Cadder Primary in Gilsochill are twinned with Colegio Sorolla in Valencia, and after a £27,000 boost from the Turing Scheme which made the trip affordable for families, and months of hard work by teachers, they finally got to meet their Spanish peers.
Headteacher Damian Nicholas said the trip had been a 'milestone' in the pupils' primary school journey.
'It broadened their horizons, built confidence and created memories that will last a lifetime,' he added.
'Many of these young people were going abroad for the first time and we are incredibly proud of how they represented our school and city.'
(Image: Cadder Primary)
Cadder Primary began weekly Spanish lessons for all pupils in the school, with teacher Katie O'Brien, last year.
'At the same time, we were also successful in our application to the Turing Scheme, a UK government initiative for schools which provides funding for international study and work placements,' said Damian.
Cadder Primary was awarded £27,000 for a five-day educational and cultural trip to Valencia for a group of primary seven pupils.
(Image: Cadder Primary)
For the next few months, teachers and pupils in Glasgow took part in a range of activities designed to build up partnerships with Colegio Sorolla, including a Spanish Week, celebrating Spanish music, art, food and culture.
Last month, children headed to Valencia, where they spent time on Cullera Beach and visited L'Oceanogràfic, Europe's largest aquarium, to learn about marine life, from graceful dolphins to mysterious jellyfish.
'At Colegio Sorolla, the pupils were warmly welcomed by their Spanish peers, and together they participated in joint lessons, games and cultural exchanges,' says Damian.
'It was heartwarming to see friendships blossom across borders and languages, reinforcing the value of global citizenship.'
The group also explored the historic heart of Valencia.
'The children were fascinated by the city's rich history and stunning architecture,' added Damian. 'Later, we visited Gulliver's Park, where the giant playground structure based on the story of Gulliver's Travels provided endless fun and laughter.'
Primary seven pupil Harris Campbell, 11, said: 'I loved learning about Spain, its language and its people.
'My favourite thing was visiting the old town because I like learning about history and the architecture of old buildings. I also really enjoyed going to the beach every day.
'It was the best school trip ever and a bargain because it only cost about £50.'
Principal Teacher, Stefanie Szula said: 'Taking our primary seven children to Valencia was a fantastic and memorable experience.
'For many, it was their first time travelling abroad, making it especially meaningful. They had the unique opportunity to explore a different culture whilst sharing the experience with their peers.'
In June, children who attended the Valencia trip were invited to the City Chambers for lunch and a meeting with the Lord Provost Councillor Jacqueline McLaren.
'The pupils returned brimming with excitement and unforgettable memories,' said Damian.
'The experience, which combined learning, friendship and fun, was a resounding success and a perfect way to round off their final year at primary school.'