School of Education Academy Students Explore London in Transformative International Experience

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Catawba College’s School of Education’s Academy for Teaching scholars recently returned from an immersive international trip to London, where they spent four days exploring historic landmarks, world-class museums, and educational institutions while gaining valuable global perspectives to bring back to their future classrooms.

The trip began with a walking tour of central London, where students visited iconic sites including the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace, and Trafalgar Square. The experience allowed students to connect the history they have studied in the classroom with real-world locations, deepening their understanding of global cultures and historical context.

On the second day, students visited the British Museum, where they explored artifacts spanning thousands of years of human history. Many students noted the impact of seeing such significant objects in person, emphasizing how experiences like this help make learning more tangible and meaningful.

“Overall, this experience has impacted me greatly as both a person and a future educator,” one student shared. “It showed me the importance of bringing real-world connections into the classroom and helping students see beyond their immediate surroundings.”

Students also had opportunities to explore London independently, building confidence through navigating a global city while experiencing its diverse culture, something many cited as a highlight of the trip.

Day three included visits to Westminster Abbey and the Natural History Museum, followed by an evening in London’s West End to see Six, a musical that reimagines the lives of Henry VIII’s six wives. The performance offered a creative and engaging example of how history can be taught in dynamic and accessible ways.

“Seeing how history was presented in such a modern and engaging format really inspired me,” another student reflected. “It made me think about how I can bring creativity into my own teaching.”

On the final day, students visited Christ’s Hospital School, a traditional British boarding school and the alma mater of Mr. Fleming. The group toured the campus and experienced the school’s unique traditions, including its famous Band Parade.

“I enjoyed getting to experience Christ’s Hospital and seeing how different their school system is,” one student noted. “It gave me a new perspective on education and how culture influences the way schools operate.”

Throughout the trip, students were continually challenged to reflect on how these experiences would shape their development as educators. From engaging with history and science in world-renowned museums to observing a different educational system firsthand, the trip reinforced the value of global learning.

“Overall, this trip was an amazing experience that helped me grow both personally and professionally,” another student shared. “It opened my eyes to new perspectives that I will carry with me into my future classroom.”

The London trip is part of the School of Education’s ongoing commitment to preparing future educators who are globally aware, culturally responsive, and equipped to inspire the next generation.

 
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