News & Headteacher Blogs

Over the Easter break, our Year 12 and 13 Visual and Performing Arts students travelled to New York City for five days of inspiration and unforgettable experiences. 

We arrived safe and well and heading straight out to take in the noise and vibe of NYC for the very first time!  We then welcomed a good meal at the Tick Tock Diner to talk schedules and excitement at finally being here. 

We then had a guided tour of famous TV and movie locations brought the city’s creative industries to life, followed by an improv workshop at Pearl Studios with a brilliant Broadway actor. Students threw themselves into it and had a great time. Later, a visit to the Museum of the Moving Image gave them a deeper understanding of film and media, before we headed to the Empire State Building after dinner at the Skylight Diner, taking in those iconic views across the city at night.

Day three took us downtown. We walked through some of New York’s most historic and powerful landmarks, including Trinity Church, Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange, before taking the ferry out to Liberty and Ellis Island. Standing at the 9/11 Memorial and then looking out from One World Trade Centre was a moment of reflection for everyone. That evening, the energy shifted again as we headed into Times Square, enjoyed dinner at John’s Pizzeria, and then took our seats for The Great Gatsby on Broadway. 

Our final day included a backstage tour of Radio City Music Hall gave students a glimpse into the scale and professionalism behind major productions, before we explored Rockefeller Centre, walked through Central Park and finished with time in Macy’s. A brilliant way to round off the trip.

Thank you to all the staff at all the places we visited and giving us that famous NYC welcome! We will never forget it!

A huge thank you to the staff who supported the trip and to the families who made it possible. And most of all, well done to the students. You made it a joy; we hope it has broadened your world and given you new ideas for your next chapters.