27 March 2023
London Day 1 Update from Mrs Tanner
All year 7s are now tucked up in bed resting and prepping for a busy schedule ahead…but what a day 1 we have had! We have been lucky enough to be “in the room where it happened” – history in the making. After the long journey down to London, following a very early start, we arrived and headed straight to the Royal Courts of Justice. As we arrived, there were cameras and reporters… Why? Because Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, and Elton John were in the building for the start of the first hearing in their claims against Associated Newspapers Limited (ANL). Unfortunately, we did not sneak a peek, but it was awesome just to be in the same building! We were also in awe in seeing all the Kings’s Counsel arriving to participate in their ‘taking the silk ceremony’. Becoming King’s Counsel is referred to as ‘taking silk’ as members wear a silk gown to signify their position. Taking silk marks progression to the highest-ranking position for an established lawyer and is considered an honourable one. Pupils were mesmerised seeing so many barristers and judges in their full gown and wigs. Pupils had the opportunity to sit and role play in the oldest court rooms. Built in 1882, this room has seen many cases – how privileged we were to be inside. The pupils’ re-enactment was outstanding – it was such a shame we were not allowed to take pictures.
We followed this with a quick stroll to Covent Garden for some shopping where the teachers were able to take a break and have a yummy hot chocolate whilst listening to the most amazing violinist. The day ended at Honest Burgers where we were very happy to refuel after a long day – the food was so delicious and the service so accommodating!
9pm – we arrived at the hotel, pupils in rooms, fast asleep by 10.30 recharging for an exciting day ahead. Tomorrow’s update will include – Shakespeare’s Globe, The Science Museum, Thames River Cruise and a review of our stop at Six: The Musical… we can’t wait!
28 March 2023
Day 2 and we are finally dry…
Today started with a lovely walk beside the River Thames sightseeing some of London’s great landmarks. The drizzle turned into rain but did not deter our pupils from soaking up all that they could see. We really enjoyed watching their faces fill with joy!
First stop – Shakespeare’s Globe! During our tour, we were privileged to witness rehearsals of ‘The Tempest’, as well as finding out the most interesting facts about what life was really like in the 1600s. A quick cross over London’s Millennium Bridge, where we inspected some of Ben Wilson’s chewing gum art.
Pupils were very glad to see that the coach would be taking us to our next stop … The Science Museum. Time to explore some of our world’s wonders in dry surroundings. Of course, the gift shop was all of their true highlight.
A quick stop at Pizza Hut to refuel and off to Six The Musical we went. The pupils did not realise that they were having a history lesson. Shhh!! They were too busy clapping, singing and enjoying the wonderful show that it is.
Another inspiring day!
![Image[4]](https://www.hexhammiddleschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Image4-768x576.jpeg)
![Image[3]](https://www.hexhammiddleschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Image3-1-768x1365.jpeg)
![Image[2]](https://www.hexhammiddleschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Image2-2-768x576.jpeg)
![Image[1]](https://www.hexhammiddleschool.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Image1-1-768x1365.jpeg)
29 March 2023
Day 3 and we are coming home…
As we head back home, pupils and staff are reflecting on yet another successful day in London. Having had a restful night’s sleep, we started our day at the Tower of London. Pupils were mesmerised by the ravens, the armoury and artillery collection and, of course, the Crown Jewels. Following this, we had a fresh sightseeing cruise from Tower Bridge to Embankment. The crew entertained the pupils with fun facts about the wonders of The Thames.
Back on land and pupils enjoyed buying souvenirs- any excuse to spend their money to treat their parents, so they say! It was time to head off on our second walking tour where pupils absorbed nature in the beautiful St James’s Park. Soon we were outside Buckingham Palace and true amazement and awe was shared by all.
Now we head home… a little bit tired, a lot more knowledgeable and with many more memories to cherish forever! Thank you HMS pupils – you have been a delight! Huge thank you to Mrs Tanner, Mr Freeman-Myers, Mrs Bond, Mrs Scott and Mr Drummond too!
