Year 8/9 German Trip to the Rhine Oct 2009

65 year 8's and 9's joined us on a trip to Kamp Bornhofen this term where they were immersed into German culture and were able to practise their German language skills whilst taking in the stunning landscape of the Rhine. It was a long coach journey but we finally arrived at Kamp Bornhofen, a beautiful shipping village in the heart of the Loreley Valley. Every day began with a ferry trip across the Rhine to Boppard, a 2000 year old town in the heart of the Rhineland. Our first day saw us take a chair lift up to the top of the hills to see the stunning landscape of the Rhine where we tucked into some delicious “Kaffee und Kuchen,” which, despite taking a long time to arrive, was definitely worth the wait. We were then taken to Köln where we climbed the 509 stairs of spiral staircase up to the top of the spire. All agreed the views were breathtaking but everybody felt a little dizzy by the time we got back down! This was only made better when we reached the chocolate factory and were let loose in the chocolate shop!
 
Back on the ferry the next morning to Boppard and a short walk to the station where we took the train on a scenic route to Buchholz. From here we walked all the way back to Boppard through the beautiful countryside, stopping only for some cake! When we reached Boppard, students were given time to go shopping and complete a town quiz which encouraged them to ask questions of locals and find out historical information. Having been so lucky with the weather, a boat trip followed to St. Goar. We all enjoyed the opportunity to sit and enjoy the stunning scenery along the Rhine and the sunshine only made it better. We finished the day with an evening of bowling where the teachers gave the students a run for their money!
 
On our last day, we went to Phantasialand, an impressive theme park in Bruhl, where everybody went off in groups to try the different rides. Unfortunately the weather let us down and by the end of the day we all looked like drowned rats, especially those of us who had been on the log flume. Glad to be back in the warmth of the hotel we set up for our “Britain’s Got Talent” and disco evening. The student performances were outstanding. Mr Arthur then led the dancing for the disco and had everyone up on their feet joining in. It was a fantastic way to end the trip.
 
On the way home, students told us how much they had enjoyed the trip and were glad they had come. Not only did they see a beautiful part of Germany, but they were able to practise their German and make new friends along the way. A huge success! Mrs Whaley would like to thank all the staff for all their assistance during the trip and the students for their superb behaviour and positive response to their short stay in the Rhineland.
M Talbot