History Trip to Krakow and Auschwitz

Fifty Fourth Year pupils saw their studies brought to life when they headed out to Krakow on their GCSE History trip.

The trip started with a knowledgeable guided tour of the city and walk around the famous square packed with churches and the iconic cloth hall. Then to the majestic castle that overlooks the city and, on the way, passing the commemoration of the Katyn massacre.

The next day was a sombre one as the pupils visited Auschwitz, the notorious death camps in which 1.1 million Jews were murdered alongside around 200,000 Poles, gypsies, Soviet POWs and priests. The visit included viewing the torture cells, the main crematoria and the huge camp complex of Auschwitz Birkenau. This was, needless to say, a profoundly moving experience.

On the last day was a visit to the incredible Wieliczka salt mine complex with its gigantic cathedral carved entirely out of salt.

While some of the topics were challenging, this trip was also filled with many lights moments and it was a real pleasure to take the pupils to see all of these places. Our Fourth Years were reflective, mature and thoughtful, as well as being fast learners of Polish dancing!