When we reflect on school days, the memories that stand out the most are not those of lessons, but rather the experiences that took us beyond the classroom walls. School trips are more than just a welcome break from routine; they are powerful learning tools. They provide students with the opportunity to grow, develop independence, acquire new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime.

I only had the chance to attend one school trip, but it left a lasting impact on me. At 14, I travelled to London with an English school for two weeks. It was my first time being away from home for this long without my family, and it was also my first time in the UK. It was an educational trip, so sightseeing and shopping were not the only things on the programme. The schedule alternated between one day of English class and one day of sightseeing, with some free time in between.

Having free time during the trip allowed me to explore London at my own pace and discover interests and experiences that weren’t part of the structured schedule.

Looking back now, I realise that experience taught me more about English than any textbook ever has. It also taught me the importance of being responsible. Suddenly, I had to look after myself: cleaning up, doing laundry, planning meals, budgeting my money, and keeping track of my belongings. On top of all that, I was doing it in a country where I had to speak a language that wasn’t my own. At first, it was intimidating — but it quickly became empowering.

Perhaps the biggest lesson was independence. During our free time, I had to navigate London’s streets and public transport, make decisions on where to go and what to do, and find solutions without relying on parents or teachers. It was a small taste of adulthood, and it gave me confidence I still carry today.

Trips like this are especially valuable for language learners. Learning in a classroom is useful, but nothing compares to hearing English used naturally in everyday situations – whether that’s chatting with locals, asking for directions, or ordering food in a café. Being in London, surrounded by the language, made it feel practical and real in a way that a textbook never could.

Using my English while discovering London’s landmarks, like Big Ben, showed me how language connects you to a place and its people.

These trips also open doors to new cultures and perspectives. They encourage students to step outside their comfort zones and see the world differently. Even a short trip can spark curiosity, fuel ambition, and inspire a love of travel and learning that lasts a lifetime.

So if you ever have the chance to go on a school trip – take it. And if you’re a parent or teacher wondering whether it’s worth the time and effort, trust me, it is. I only went on one, and yet the lessons I learned, the confidence I gained, and the memories I made left an impact on me that I still carry to this day.