Cambridge Visit

We had an amazing trip to Cambridge University with our top performing 24 students in the final week of last half term. There are multiple student reviews below.

‘What I’d say I’ve enjoyed most (related to the actual university campus) was definitely hearing about the story of the place during the tour on the river – it was rather interesting and quite fun. Plus (being into Photography) some of the sights were gorgeous; something that I really appreciated and that I don’t often see.

What I overall had most fun in was the bowling experience: it was really nice and exciting to see everybody have a good time playing a fun game with their friends, and I can most certainly say that I enjoyed myself a lot, but of course the bowling experience wasn’t related to the university itself!

What could’ve been better would have been having a guide (somebody actively working on the university site itself) who could have given us some more in-depth details on what the university stands for, what it offers and what studying opportunities there are. Because, although we were told what some of the colleges were about, we weren’t actually told much about what is taught and how greatly the university has impacted its students. which is what I personally expected to hear most.

Overall, though, it was a lovely trip and a fantastic time, I saw some beautiful sights and had a great time with everybody. I truly appreciate the opportunity and (to be honest) wish it could have lasted a day or two longer as well.’

‘Thank you very much for hosting the trip, and thank you for the lovely experience and memories created.‘ Will

This is an extensive review written by Jack Watson which we think is just fantastic!

Before my mock exams in December last year, a competition was created by my school whereby the top 25 performing students who achieved the highest average grade would be invited on an overnight trip to Cambridge. It would involve a tour around King’s College and the beautiful chapel; walking the area; some fun activities on the night; and a punt on the Cam. I was already going to work hard for the grades despite this. However, it gave me an extra push to focus and put the effort in, which paid off; I came joint-second.

It was an early start as we had to meet at school for 7.30am, ready for an 8am departure. But typically, we had a (long) delay, not setting off until 9.30. The driver was stuck in traffic. After numerous calls to the company when he still did not arrive, they assured us he was at the location; it turned out he went to the wrong school, located at the other side of Hull. Fortunately, when the vehicle appeared (one and a half hours late), it was a corporate coach, allowing us to have a luxurious and comfortable journey down South.

I had never visited Cambridge, which is a small City, with some picturesque sights and historical features; a nice change of scenery from my hometown of Hull. The coach dropped us off outside the entrance of the campus, which was magnificent. King’s College was not far away, but we had to walk through some small Dickensian streets before we reached the entrance. Built during the Tudor period and maintaining its lovely construction, the King’s College Chapel was exceptional and with its huge structure, it allowed us to explore the vast and wide features. It was a quick exploration and unfortunately it was all we could visit, but whilst walking along the paths, we could see the excellent landscapes of the many other parts of Cambridge University, where I aspire to study in a couple of years.

The coach took us to the hotel afterwards, where we checked in and had dinner, before heading across the street to the arcade centre. We played a few games of bowling (which I did not win) and pool and returned to the hotel to sleep. This was not the best part of the trip.

I was first down to breakfast in the morning, giving me time to wake up and function properly. The rest of the students followed a couple hours later, and we were soon on the coach back to where we started yesterday, on our way to the punting booths. I envisaged somebody falling into the Cam, which would have been problematic, but a great story for this piece. I thought it would be me; however, everyone escaped in dry clothes.

We were punting for 80 minutes and had a tour of the different colleges (Queens, Trinity St Johns and Kings College), which were fantastic, although it was extremely cold and it started drizzling (I was trying to think of a pun, but after pun-ting for too long, I gave up). We returned to the Guildhall and had over an hour to eat and shop. I felt like eating in a posh restaurant, however, after four attempts, they all took card payments. I do not possess one. I settled for a gourmet sandwich at the M&S cafe instead.

We had over three hours on the coach (where I am currently writing this) until we returned to Hull. A short nap and a good read would see me through the journey and perhaps a bit of music and podcasts. I would, if I hadn’t left my tablet in my bag in the luggage compartment, to which my headphones automatically connect. Oh, and my book was in there too.

Hopefully it can make a great feature and celebrate this wonderful experience! 🙂

Thank you.