The perfect blend of education and adventure
Dr Nicolaou and a group of Sixth-Form students reflect on a memorable Science trip to Switzerland
From 17th to 19th March 2026, twenty-five Year 12 and 13 Physics students travelled to CERN in Geneva, Switzerland for an inspiring three-day exploration of world-leading particle physics. They were accompanied by three Science teachers - Dr Nicolaou, Ms C Patel and Ms J Patel - who supported and guided them throughout the trip.
The visit began with a tour of Geneva’s historic Old Quarter, where pupils had the chance to discover the city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning lakeside scenery. They enjoyed tasting traditional Swiss cuisine, and of course took full advantage of the opportunity to sample plenty of Swiss chocolate along the way!
A major highlight of the trip was the time spent at CERN. Students explored interactive exhibitions before taking part in a guided tour of the collider facilities, gaining first-hand insight into how scientists study fundamental particles and probe the mysteries of the universe. Meeting researchers and witnessing real scientific work brought their A-level learning vividly to life.
‘The visit was both intellectually stimulating and highly motivating,’ adds Ms C Patel. ‘It not only reinforced pupils’ understanding of advanced scientific concepts, but also encouraged them to think more broadly about future opportunities available to them.’
To round out the experience, the group took part in team-building activities, including laser tag and bowling, helping strengthen bonds across the Sixth Form and ensuring plenty of fun alongside the academic focus.
Overall, the trip provided a memorable blend of science, culture and teamwork - an experience that will stay with pupils long after they return to their studies and go on to further education or training.
These Sixth-Form students certainly agree…
‘Our trip to Switzerland was an unforgettable experience,’ says Aiden Kandasamy in Year 13. ‘The highlight was visiting the CERN particle collider, where we got a rare glimpse into the world of cutting-edge physics research. It was amazing to see the various colliders and data centres and learn how scientists explore the fundamental components of the universe. Outside of the labs, we enjoyed some exciting activities, like bowling and laser tag, which gave us the chance to relax and bond with friends one last time before the exam season. We also spent time sightseeing around Geneva, taking in the breathtaking views of Lake Geneva, the iconic Jet d’Eau fountain with the majestic Alps in the distance. This perfect blend of education and adventure made the trip a truly memorable one.’
‘Seeing how something as impossible as anti-matter is actually created and controlled at CERN was incredible,’ adds Kishen Shah, also in Year 13. ‘It made science feel very exciting. Outside of all the experiments, some of the best moments were just being with friends, playing laser tag and going bowling. It was a great way to relax and enjoy the trip together. I now have a new perspective on how scientists come up with ideas. It was interesting to see that a lot of successful projects, like the World Wide Web, were first rejected and people had to keep working at them to make them happen. It made me realise how important persistence and creativity are in science.’
‘The trip was an unforgettable experience with many highlights,’ says Shiony Halai, Year 13. ‘One of the most memorable aspects was the opportunity to meet and talk with students from around the world. It was interesting to hear about their experience of the trip and their own perspectives. Visiting CERN was particularly fascinating. It opened my eyes to the immense amount of time, effort and collaboration required for scientific research. I was amazed by the scale of the organisation - it felt like its own village, with vast amounts of advanced technology and countless people working together. It also made me realise how CERN is helping us understand the universe on a much deeper level and how much there is still left to discover! Overall, the trip has given me a greater appreciation of science - physics in particular - and the importance of global collaboration in research. It showed me that learning has no limits and inspired me to stay curious.’