S4 Social Subjects Trip - Lake Garda

This year forty-eight S4 pupils and six teachers left a dull morning in Motherwell to jet off to the sunny surroundings of Lake Garda, Italy. There, we were greeted by the sun smiling down on them and a cool breeze sweeping through the air – a “bella” destination in which we would reside in for five days, completing fun activities and making long-lasting memories along the way. On the first day of the trip, we were promptly soaked and screaming as we barrelled down the slides of Caneva Aquapark. Pupils were able to swim around the park for a few hours of fun in the sun, exploring and riding many of the slides the water world had to offer.

On a warm and dry Monday, with the sun beating down on them like a drum, we set off for the world-renowned city of Venice, seeing the spires of St. Marks’ Cathedral and partaking in a class demonstrating the making of Murano glass. Pupils were able to enjoy hours of fun just exploring the many streets and shops on offer, even going on a gondola trip if we chose to! On a slightly colder, albeit still roasting, Tuesday, we took a bus trip down to the historic fairytale town of Valeggio. Students were encouraged by the teachers to have a try of “the world’s best ice cream” and many did, confirming that it was the best we had ever tasted. After an hour or so, we set off for Verona, the city of Romeo and Juliet which welcomed us to visit its Roman amphitheatre.

There were also themed nights during our stay in Italy. On Scotland Night, pupils were encouraged to show their national pride, with one saltire-painted face-stained blue for the rest of the trip, whilst the Colour Challenge night at the bowling had two pupils jumping out of their packet dressed like Crayola Crayons. One committed individual even wore a pink inflatable shark suit and played bowling with his flippers.

The final full-day of the trip took the adventurers to Gardaland, an incredible theme park full of twists, turns and thrills in the glorious Italian sunshine. Overall, the staff (Ms. Esdaile, Mr Purvis, Mr. O’Hagan, Mr. Shanks, Mr. Agnew and Mrs. McDermott) and pupils all agreed that the trip was a brilliant experience and it would leave memories for years to come. Our thanks go to the teachers involved, and to Mark and Jenna who organised and planned the week’s schedule.
By Cameron McFarlane (S4)