Visit to Wales

Before our visit, students from both St Martin's and IES Las Palomas participated in a Pen Pal Project. Using Padlet, an online platform, they exchanged letters and shared insights about their cultures and interests. This initiative allowed them to get to know each other and build anticipation for the exchange. Through this simple yet effective communication, students formed connections that enhanced their experience during the Taith Project exchange.

s the first joint activity during the visit of Spanish exchange students to our school in Caerphilly, we organized an educational trip to the Welsh Senedd in Cardiff. This visit built upon the connections we established during our trip to Spain a month ago. The students were given an insightful tour of the Senedd building, where they learned about its unique architectural design and the legislative processes of the Welsh Parliament. The visit included an engaging workshop, allowing students to explore the roles and responsibilities of the Senedd and the significance of civic participation. This initial activity set a positive and informative tone for their stay, fostering a deeper understanding of Welsh political and cultural systems and further strengthening the bonds between students.

Our students visited Cardiff Museum where they explored the museum's permanent exhibitions, which showcased the rich history and heritage of Wales, including displays on natural history, archaeology, and art. A highlight of the visit was the temporary exhibition on self-portraits, featuring a stunning piece by Vincent van Gogh. This visit deepened their appreciation for art and history and strengthened the cultural ties and friendships between the students from Wales and Spain.

As part of our cultural exchange program, students from our school in Caerphilly and their Spanish exchange peers visited St Fagans National Museum of History. The visit featured a dynamic workshop focused on exploring Welsh identity, where students from both schools mixed into groups to collaboratively explore the museum. They had the opportunity to explore a diverse array of historical buildings that have been meticulously relocated and reconstructed at the museum, providing an immersive glimpse into various aspects of Welsh life through the ages. The workshop not only deepened their understanding of Welsh heritage but also fostered meaningful cross-cultural interactions

Students from our school and their Spanish counterparts embarked on a scenic coastal path walk from Monknash to Dunraven in Wales. The journey offered breathtaking views of the rugged Welsh coastline, with students exploring diverse landscapes and learning about the region's natural history. The walk provided an excellent opportunity for outdoor learning, fostering appreciation for the natural environment and promoting physical activity. This shared experience also strengthened the bonds between the students, as they navigated the beautiful yet challenging terrain together, creating lasting memories and deepening their connection to Wales

We visited the Big Pit National Coal Museum. This educational trip provided a profound insight into Wales' industrial heritage and mining history. Students were taken on an underground tour, where they experienced the conditions miners faced and learned about the significant role coal mining played in the development of Welsh communities. They explored various exhibits, including mining artifacts and interactive displays that highlighted the technological advancements and daily lives of miners. The visit to Big Pit was not only an eye-opening experience into the hardships and achievements of Welsh miners but also an opportunity for the students to connect over shared learning experiences.

We embarked on an exhilarating hike to Pen y Fan, the highest peak in southern Britain, with our students from Caerphilly and their Spanish exchange counterparts. The journey offered breathtaking views of the Brecon Beacons National Park and provided a unique educational experience, with discussions on the natural history and geology of the area. The hike was both a physical challenge and a rewarding opportunity for outdoor learning, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Welsh landscape. As we made our way to the summit, students encouraged and supported each other, building camaraderie and team spirit. 

 As one of the largest medieval fortresses in Britain, Caerphilly Castle offered a captivating glimpse into Welsh history and architecture. Students explored the impressive structures, including the iconic leaning tower and expansive moats, while learning about the castle's strategic significance and historical events. The visit provided an immersive experience, allowing students to appreciate the castle's grandeur firsthand and enriching their understanding of Welsh heritage.

During their visit to St Martin's School, students from our partner school had the opportunity to mingle with our students and participate in a variety of engaging activities. The day began with a comprehensive tour of our facilities, allowing the visiting students to experience the vibrant learning environment of our school. The Spanish department, along with the science and catering departments, organized a series of interactive sessions. In the science lab, students worked together to conduct an experiment analyzing different metals, fostering collaboration and scientific inquiry. Meanwhile, in the catering session, students collaborated to cook a Welsh menu, featuring local produce and traditional Welsh cakes, offering a delicious taste of Welsh culture. This visit not only facilitated meaningful cultural exchange but also highlighted the strengths of our academic programs and the warm hospitality of our school community.

During our past visit to Cardiff, students from our school in Caerphilly and their Spanish exchange counterparts enjoyed a day of fun and exploration. They began with a visit to Bute Park, where they had lunch together, played football, and relaxed amidst the scenic surroundings. Later, they ventured into the heart of Cardiff for an afternoon of shopping at a bustling mall, where they browsed through stores and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere of the city center.