Downham Market Academy students venture to Disneyland Paris for fun and educational school trip

A group of schoolchildren ventured abroad to a tourist hotspot to add to their maths skills and thought the trip was “amazing”.

On January 14, 40 maths enthusiasts from Years 9 and 10 at Downham Market Academy travelled to Disneyland Paris for three days.

The trip extended beyond the usual theme park excitement, as students got the chance to attend an international mathematics seminar, take part in an interactive workshop, and complete a number of specialist assignments.

In the enchanting settings of Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, students enjoyed rides, fireworks, and a dazzling drone display.

Staying at a Disney hotel, just a short bus ride away, added an extra layer of magic to the overall experience.

The highlight of the excursion was the seminar exploring the mathematical intricacies of theme park finance, aligning with the GCSE maths curriculum, and gaining approval from the major examination boards.

Students delved into algebra to analyse park population dynamics based on rollercoaster ridership.

Geometry came into play for calculating the volume of iconic rides like Hyperspace Mountain, while trigonometry unravelled the principles behind roller coaster design, emphasising the importance of triangles.

The interactive workshop enabled students to put the mathematical theory into practice as they crafted their own personalised roller coasters.

Officials at Downham Market Academy said the visit to Disneyland was a “resounding success”, with all the students having a “fantastic time”.

This educational adventure not only created unforgettable memories but also instilled practical life skills, preparing them for the future.

Rob Penny, trip organiser, said: “The four staff members were amazing, and seeing the students, many of whom were first-time travellers, having a blast and growing as young individuals was truly rewarding.

“All the time spent planning was definitely worth it and we are already looking forward to doing the same again next year.”

Amelia, a Year 9 student at the academy, said: “The trip was amazing. From the parks to the adults with us, it was a lovely time and I think everyone agreed that it was a successful trip.

“The maths workshop we did was great as well, designing a roller coaster was an interesting application of our knowledge.”

Rose, also a Year 9 student, said: “We had a really good time, we were able to go off and do the rides which was fun, and we all had a good time in our groups.

“We had a really good coach driver who dropped us off early and picked us up late so we could watch the fireworks and the drone display.

“Me and my friends had a good time in the Disney hotel, and it was good to have independence both in the parks and hotel.”