London Residential - Update 1

After an early start in the drizzle this morning, Year 5 jumped on the bus and safely arrived at the Harry Potter Studios, ready for a workshop and tour. We were super excited to be VIPs and explore some of the behind-the-scenes props from the films.

Our workshop focused on mythical creatures, and the children had to solve riddles to win prizes. We then moved on to creating our own magical creatures, using wonderful descriptive language.

After the workshop, we went back downstairs to eat lunch in the café. On the way, the children were mesmerised by the enormous dragon hanging from the ceiling.

Following lunch, we completed our tour, which included attractions from the films such as the Great Hall, Diagon Alley and Privet Drive.

We are now on our way into London, where we will be settling into the hostel and preparing for dinner and a good night’s sleep!

London Residential - Update 2

The aim of a good night’s sleep was met with mixed results, but we did wearily emerge for breakfast this morning to fuel up for a busy day ahead!

After breakfast, we headed over to the Houses of Parliament for a tour and workshop, which extended our learning from UK Parliament Week.

We were scheduled to meet MP Sir Geoffrey Cox; however, he was called away at the last minute ahead of a busy day of Prime Minister’s Questions. Instead, we met with Sir Geoffrey’s parliamentary aide, who answered our questions on hospitals, schooling and how much MPs get paid!

On our tour, we managed to have a good look at the House of Lords, and the children stood at the top of the steps in Westminster Hall, where many people, including Nelson Mandela, have addressed crowds.

We are now sat on the London Eye, looking out at a panoramic view of the city. Loads of opportunities for pictures and the odd selfie!

Later, we are having a tour of St Paul’s Cathedral and then heading off to the theatre.

London Residential – Update 3

The weather was incredibly kind to us yesterday, and we took full advantage of it. From the London Eye, we walked along the Southbank towards St Paul’s. The children loved being out in the sunshine and were mesmerised by the skaters and street performers along the way.

When we arrived at St Paul’s, we were taken aback by the incredible architecture and artwork inside the Cathedral. The children lit candles and took a moment to think about loved ones, which was a really special experience. Shortly after, we climbed up to the Whispering Gallery and then all the way up to the dome. The views across London were absolutely incredible.

In the evening, we enjoyed dinner and, as expected, the lack of sleep began to catch up with some of us. However, that didn’t stop the children from putting on their best clothes and glamming up for the theatre. The show was amazing!

When we returned to the hostel, the children drifted off to sleep effortlessly. This morning, after a lovely breakfast, everyone is feeling much more energetic.

After breakfast, we ventured to the Tower of London and thoroughly enjoyed learning about the torture stories and seeing the Crown Jewels.

We’re now heading to London Zoo as the rain clears, and this evening we’ll be taking a night-time tour of London.

The final update will come tomorrow, just after our visit to the Steam Museum, when we’ll be on our way home!