Students from Smithdon High School in Hunstanton enjoy Christmas activities in Germany

Youngsters had the opportunity to practise their language skills when they travelled to Germany for a Christmas shopping trip with a difference.

A group of 41 students from Year 10 and 11 at Smithdon High School in Hunstanton spent a weekend visiting the famous Christmas market in Aachen, where they had the opportunity to hone their German while browsing for present.

Bernice Robinson, modern foreign languages teacher, who led the trip, said: “They went to the Aachen Christmas market and practised their language skills by buying food, drinks, gifts and souvenirs.”

The group also had the chance to visit Aachen’s historic cathedral, the site of more than 40 coronation ceremonies.

“The cathedral, where 31 kings and 12 queens have been crowned, was stunningly beautiful,”Mrs Robinson added.

“The Lindt chocolate outlet was also very popular.”

It was the first time Smithdon had run the event.

“It was a whirlwind trip, but very much enjoyed, and the excitement around the school before we left was tangible,” Mrs Robinson said.

“All the pupils on the trip have taken a language as a GCSE option, and for many this was their first opportunity to go to a German-speaking country and experience German culture first hand – and, equally important, it was an opportunity to practise their language skills.

“For several, this was the first time abroad, and, no matter what you try to teach in school, there is nothing that can replace actually experiencing another country for yourself, from the smells of the food and drink at the Christmas market, to the sounds of a different language all around you.

“The pupils were fabulously well-behaved, and I am sure they will never forget their trip to Germany.”

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