A group of thirty-eight students and four teachers spent five days in Iceland in October 2012.
Organised by the Geography Department, the Iceland Trip gave GCSE and A Level Geography students an opportunity to put their studies in context and explore the unique landscapes and features of this amazing country.
During their five-day trip, the students toured Iceland’s capital city, Reyjavik, as well as spending a day touring the world-famous Golden Circle and Reykjanes Peninsula. They encountered features such as the Kerið Crater, the Skalket Church, the Gullfoss, the Geysir and the Þingvellir national park , declared as a UNESCO world heritage site for its wonderful geological aspect and for its historical importance for the Icelandic nation. The group visited Bessastadir, the residence of Iceland’s President, as well as the fascinating, stark, moon-like surroundings of Lake Kleifarvatn. For many, the highlight was the opportunity to swim in the world-famous Blue Lagoon, a man-made oasis in the lava fields of the Reykjanes peninsula, which owes its existence to a nearby geothermal power plant, which is renowned for its warm, mineral rich waters.
The Loreto group also had the opportunity to enjoy some leisure activities such as ice-skating, bowling, shopping and a visit to the Saga Viking Museum, as well as a day of exploration of Reyjavik to absorb some local culture.
Mr Michael James, Principal, thanked Mr Liam Shaw for organising the trip, which was an enjoyable, stimulating and educational voyage of discovery further north.