Lower Sixth Head North
Mrs A. Boustead – Careers Director
Our Lower Sixth students recently traded the classroom for the historic streets of Durham and the dramatic cliffs of Whitby on a fantastic two-day educational and bonding trip. Packed with academic inspiration, stunning heritage sites, and a healthy dose of coastal fresh air, it was an unforgettable journey.
Day One: University Insights and Gothic Inspirations
The adventure began bright and early on Tuesday morning as the coach departed for Durham. By lunchtime, our students arrived at the College of St Hild and St Bede at Durham University. They received a wonderfully warm welcome from the Principal, Prof Simon Forrest, enjoyed a lovely lunch, and went to Caedmon House Students’ Union to grill Prof Forrest about what life is like for a Durham University student.
Afterwards, the group walked into the heart of Durham to visit the breathtaking Durham Cathedral. It was a deeply meaningful moment for our school community as students visited the tomb of our patron saint, the Venerable Bede. The students also enjoyed exploring the magnificent surroundings – which included walking along the iconic cloisters of Hogwarts.
As the sun began to lower, we traveled onwards to the coast, checking into the YHA Whitby, located spectacularly on the same site as the Abbey, just in time for a hearty evening meal. The day concluded with an atmospheric, post-dinner walk through the winding, moody streets of gothic Whitby looking over to the West Cliff, where Captain Cook once set sail, discovering the exact spots that inspired Bram Stoker to write Dracula, and most importantly, paddling and skimming stones before heading back up the 199 steps to the hostel for some well-deserved rest.
Day Two: Abbey Heights and Fossil Hunting
Wednesday started with a leisurely breakfast before wandering around the Abbey to marvel at the spectacular, sweeping views of the North Sea and the ruins of Whitby Abbey, and learned about the history of St Hild.
The afternoon was all about exploration and relaxation. After exploring the vibrant Old Town and Market Place along Church Street, browsing the quirky independent shops the unanimous vote was to spend the remainder of our time back on the beach, fossil hunting, playing volleyball and, of course, paddling. After a final bit of relaxation on the beach, a tired but happy Lower Sixth group boarded the coach back to Manchester.
It was a phenomenal trip that perfectly blended higher education preparation with rich cultural history. Our L6 students represented St Bede’s beautifully throughout.