Cultural trips: Taking learning beyond borders

In September, our Secondary students set off for eight destinations across Europe as part of a highly anticipated Champittet tradition. While each cultural trip offered its own unique itinerary, all shared the same purpose: to extend learning beyond the classroom, deepen cultural understanding and foster new friendships for the year ahead.

History, art and culinary immersion

Whether visiting another region of Switzerland or another country, our students expanded their horizons by experiencing firsthand the architecture, language, cuisine and other cultural aspects that define their destination.

This year, many of our students explored the rich heritage of Italy. Our Grade 13 A and C classes visited Ancient Rome, Trastevere, St Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican Museums, while students in Grade 14 (A and C) discovered the architecture and culture of Turin, including the Musei Reali, the Egyptian Museum and the Cinema Museum. 

Another group of Grade 13 students headed to the “Red City” (also known as the “Fat City”) of Bologna, where they visited the National Art Gallery, toured the Ferruccio Lamborghini Museum, tasted local delicacies and took a cooking course.

Innovation, science and experiential learning

In Paris, our Grade 12 and French as a Foreign Language students in Grades 11 to 13 explored the interactive exhibits at the Planetarium and the Cité des sciences et de l’industrie, as well as the beauty of Montmartre and other Parisian landmarks. 

Our Grade 10 students experienced the laws of physics in action on the roller coasters at Europa-Park in Rust, Germany and continued their discovery of the arts and sciences in Zurich, with visits to the Swiss Science Center Technorama, the Kunsthaus, the Lindt Home of Chocolate and the FIFA Museum.

Meanwhile, our Grade 14 D and E classes explored future academic pathways at different higher education institutions in Madrid, including IE University, the Lucerne University of Applied Sciences and Arts (HSLU) campus in Madrid, and Saint Louis University–Madrid. They also participated in a cooking workshop and discovered the Spanish capital’s many attractions, including the Prado Museum, the Bernabéu Stadium and Warner Park.

Outdoor adventure and personal growth

Immersion in nature is another cherished part of our cultural trips. Our Grade 9 travellers enjoyed a picnic aboard a boat trip to Hergiswil and walks along the lake and gardens of Lucerne, in addition to visits to the Transport Museum, the Kunstmuseum and the KKL. 
In Ticino, our Grade 11 group not only explored the charming city of Lugano, but also visited some of the region’s most spectacular natural attractions, with a walk in the Verzasca valley, a hike along the Olive Grove Trail and a boat trip on Lake Lugano.

As these journeys remind us, some of the best learning takes place outside the classroom. Although our Champittet students have returned from their travels, the shared memories, strengthened friendships and fresh perspectives they gained will continue to enrich their school experience – and set the tone for a wonderful year ahead!