What was your main aim/objective for this trip?
We wanted students to be immersed in living history, and to have the opportunity to visit sites we learn about at school, but students find it tricky to comprehend what it might have been like to live through the things that happened there. We also wanted to give students a taste of the effects of discrimination and power.
Why did you choose this destination?
We have visited previously but with more cultural and historical links. We also know that this is a safe destination for students.
We visited Schindler’s factory, Kazimierz and the place of deportation and we walked the ‘ghetto trail’. We also visited Wawel Castle and walked along the river to see the dragon. We visited Wieliczka salt mine and Auschwitz-Birkenau too. The students also enjoyed some free time in Krakow, including a visit to St. Mary’s Basilica.
We chose these visits for the wide range of culture offered, the opportunities for a glimpse of history and because they were a range of activities with something for everyone.
Climbing to the top of the watch tower at Birkenau - the 360-degree panoramic view is breath-taking, but not in a good way.
There were lots of reflective comments made regarding whether students would like to return, whether Auschwitz-Birkenau be preserved or left to decay, the historical situation of the city and the religious significance of Krakow for Pope John Paul II. Overall, they felt a sense of awe and wonder and an understanding that prejudice gets out of control too quickly.
Why did you choose these visits and activities?
We chose these visits for the wide range of culture offered, the opportunities for a glimpse of history and because they were a range of activities with something for everyone.
Climbing to the top of the watch tower at Birkenau - the 360-degree panoramic view is breath-taking, but not in a good way.
There were lots of reflective comments made regarding whether students would like to return, whether Auschwitz-Birkenau be preserved or left to decay, the historical situation of the city and the religious significance of Krakow for Pope John Paul II. Overall, they felt a sense of awe and wonder and an understanding that prejudice gets out of control too quickly.
Why did you choose Halsbury for this trip?
We’ve used Halsbury previously and they’ve always been very good.
Nerve wracking - it's been so long! But everything ran smoothly, so I need not have worried.
How would you describe the experience of working with Halsbury on this trip?
Really efficient. When our plane was delayed, Silvia arranged an extra coach to take us to our first site in order to prevent delays or missing the tour completely.
Would you recommend Halsbury to your friends and colleagues?
Yes. Their response to enquiries is quick and they solve any problems that arise. We had a student who was too poorly to travel and Halsbury helped with the insurance claim.
Do you have any tips for other teachers planning their first trips since Covid?
Just do it!