Hi, my name is Kaeti and as the new travel advisor for Select School Travel, covering Manchester, Liverpool and Cheshire areas, I thought I would introduce myself to you all and tell you all a bit about my experience as teacher and positive impacts I have seen firsthand in taking students on school trips abroad.

Outside of ski, I worked for a Welsh youth organisation for a number of years, leading trips to their outdoor pursuits centres.  I also carried out an annual trip to Paris and Disney for 5 years in my early 20s so I have a great knowledge of Paris and surrounding areas as well as Normandy to explore the D-Day landing beaches.

As a seasoned ski rep/events manager, I found myself stranded in Dover for 18 hours with students during a school ski trip to Les Deux Alpes. The situation escalated and began to draw media attention, with Sky News requesting a live update, followed by BBC radio and video interviews. It served as entertainment for my team and 40 students during the delay.

The Select team’s outstanding support during a challenging time was immensely appreciated. Their round-the-clock availability provided reassurance, while their diligent planning ensured smooth operations. The Director of Operations, Neil, made a promise that was fulfilled due to their well-strategized plans A, B, and C. Despite the industry’s difficulties during COVID, Select’s planning and logistics were impressive. When queried by the media, my first response was always to commend the Select team.

After an unforgettable ski trip with my students, I was approached by Select Sales Director, Janet Ford. Over coffee, I shared my travel tales, only to be surprised with a job offer. Despite pandemic circumstances and a recent return to teaching, I took up the opportunity. Now, I’m working full-time with Select across Cheshire, Liverpool, Greater Manchester, and North Wales, thrilled about my future with this incredible company.

Having experienced 1^st hand with my students, I can’t recommend enough how much of a positive impact educational schools trips abroad have on the pupils, allowing them to experience education in a different environment.

From a teacher’s perspective, School trips abroad can be important for several reasons, contributing to the overall educational experience of students. Here are some key reasons why I consider school trips abroad to be so valuable:

Cultural Exposure:

School trips abroad expose students to different cultures, languages, and ways of life. This firsthand experience helps broaden their perspectives, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for diversity.

Real-World Learning:

Traveling abroad provides opportunities for real-world learning that goes beyond the classroom. Students can witness historical sites, explore museums, and engage with local communities, enhancing their understanding of various subjects.

Language Acquisition:

Immersing students in a foreign language environment can significantly improve language skills. Being surrounded by native speakers encourages communication and helps students become more confident in using the language.

Personal Growth:

Traveling abroad often requires students to step out of their comfort zones. They may face new challenges, navigate unfamiliar environments, and interact with people from different backgrounds. This can lead to personal growth, increased self-confidence, and the development of problem-solving skills.

Global Awareness:

School trips abroad contribute to the development of global awareness. Students gain insights into global issues, cultural differences, and interconnectedness, fostering a sense of responsibility and citizenship on a global scale.

Social Skills:

Traveling in a group promotes teamwork and the development of social skills. Students learn to collaborate, communicate effectively, and navigate social dynamics, which are valuable skills in various aspects of life.

Memorable Experiences:

Experiencing new and exciting activities during a school trip creates lasting memories. These memories often have a powerful impact on students and can serve as motivators for continued learning and personal development.

Educational Reinforcement:

School trips can complement classroom learning by providing practical examples and applications of academic concepts. For instance, a history class may come alive when students visit historical sites, making the subject matter more tangible and memorable.

Career Exploration:

Certain school trips, especially those related to specific industries or professions, can provide students with insights into potential career paths. Visiting companies, institutions, or research facilities abroad may inspire and guide students in their future career choices.

Enhanced Appreciation for Nature:

Trips to natural landmarks or ecological sites abroad can instill a greater appreciation for the environment. Students may develop a sense of responsibility towards conservation and sustainability.

In summary, school trips abroad offer a range of educational, cultural, and personal benefits that contribute to the holistic development of students. They provide unique opportunities for learning, exposure, and growth that go beyond the traditional classroom setting.

Get in touch with me today about how I can help plan your schools next trip!