Residential Trip to CERN AND Geneva

Our Year 12 students recently went on a residential trip to CERN and Geneva from 10th to 12th June, which they found to be an unforgettable experience filled with exploration, learning and fun.

The journey began with our enthusiastic students setting off early in the morning, buzzing with excitement for the adventures that lay ahead. Upon arriving in Geneva and after a quick lunch, we made our way to the Conservatoire et Jardin Botaniques — the stunning Botanical Gardens in Geneva, which was first on our list of places of educational interest. The vibrant colours and fragrant flowers captivated everyone, providing a perfect backdrop for our guided tour. Students were eager to learn about the various plant species and their unique ecosystems. The serene atmosphere of the gardens offered students time to marvel at the expertly designed greenhouses and habitats.

In the evening, we took a leisurely stroll along the River Rhône. The picturesque scenery — including the iconic Jet d'Eau — left everyone in awe. Students enjoyed exploring local shops and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. The day ended with a delicious two-course meal at a restaurant in the heart of Geneva.

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel on the second day, we headed to CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. The students were thrilled to explore the world of particle physics and cutting-edge research. The interactive exhibits and guided tour ignited their curiosity, as they learnt about the Large Hadron Collider, the creation of antimatter, and the discovery of the Higgs boson — also known as the ‘God Particle’ — which answers one of the fundamental questions of the universe. The students also visited CERN’s Data Centre, the birthplace of the World Wide Web (WWW), and learned about the systems that analyse and process data from 400 million hadron collisions per second. It was a remarkable opportunity to connect classroom learning with real-world science.

After a day full of learning, the students had some free time in Bel-Air, where they explored the streets around Lake Geneva. We then made our way to a pizzeria, where the students enjoyed their dinner in an outdoor seating area, admiring the views on a very pleasant evening before returning to the hotel.

The final day was dedicated to visiting an animal park and the History of Science Museum. After a quick breakfast and packing up, we made our way to the Bois-de-la-Bâtie, where students engaged with various animals and were particularly fascinated by the beauty of peacocks roaming freely. At the History of Science Museum, the interactive displays intrigued the students. They were especially interested in learning about the origins of instruments such as motors, thermometers and microscopes — tools they regularly use in lessons. The museum’s exhibits sparked lively discussions and encouraged questions, further enhancing their learning experience.

After another stroll along Lake Geneva, a brief visit to the Flower Clock, and a chance to buy some Swiss chocolates, we made our way to the airport for our return flight. Throughout the journey home, students shared their favourite moments — from the awe-inspiring sights at CERN to the delightful food they had tasted. The trip not only enriched their knowledge, but also created lasting memories of friendship and discovery.