During the second week of the Half-Term, 10 Year 13 Classists set out on an exciting expedition to the Bay of Naples. The trip was a long time coming! Most of the participants were due to participate in the annual Year 8 trip back in 2019 but were thwarted by a BA Pilots’ Strike and collapse of Thomas Cook long before Covid brought our classical travels to a halt. 5 years later we were subjected to last-minute EasyJet cancellations and national train and bus strikes in Italy! Undeterred, we had the most fantastic few days.
We climbed Vesuvius and the glorious weather enhanced the experience and views. We then spent some time at the wonderful Imperial Villa at Oplontis before exploring Pompeii to our hearts’ content. We almost had the site to ourselves. We saw all the best bits – the Amphitheatre, the Theatres, the Temples, Caecilius’ House, the graffiti, the streets – and a whole lot more! We also watched the sun set over the Forum, an experience none of us will ever forget.
On the following day – despite numerous transport setbacks – we made it to Paestum where we visited the world’s best preserved Greek Temples which were simply stunning. We also explored underground Naples by night and sampled authentic Neapolitan pizza and ice cream. My thanks go to Mr O’Connell who accompanied us and to the students themselves whose energy and enthusiasm never wavered despite the punishing schedule and unforeseen transport problems!
Mrs O’Connell
Head of Classics
