Forty-one pupils from Year 10 and 11 spent a weekend visiting the famous Christmas Market in Aachen, where they had the opportunity to hone their German while browsing for presents for friends and family.

“They went to the Aachen Christmas Market and practised their language skills by buying food, drinks, gifts and souvenirs,” said Modern Foreign Languages Teacher Bernice Robinson, who led the trip.

The group also had the chance to visit Aachen’s historic cathedral, the site of over 40 coronation ceremonies.

“The cathedral, where 31 kings and 12 queens have been crowned, was stunningly beautiful,” continued Mrs Robinson. “The Lindt chocolate outlet was also very popular!”

It was the first time Smithdon, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust, had run the event.

“It was a whirlwind trip, but very much enjoyed, and the excitement around the school before we left was tangible,” added Mrs Robinson.

“All the pupils on the trip have taken a language as a GCSE option, and for many this was their first opportunity to go to a German-speaking country and experience German culture first hand – and, equally important, it was an opportunity to practise their language skills.

“For several, this was the first time abroad, and, no matter what you try to teach in school, there is nothing that can replace actually experiencing another country for yourself, from the smells of the food and drink at the Christmas Market, to the sounds of a different language all around you.

“The pupils were fabulously well behaved, and I am sure they will never forget their trip to Germany.”