Our Team Day Trip to London

We at European Study Tours realise the importance of product knowledge and team bonding which is why the whole office went on a team away day to London in early August.

In the morning we went to the ArcelorMittal Orbit in the Queen Elizabeth Park, Stratford which is the iconic structure of the London 2012 Games and has the longest and tallest tunnel slide in the world. We found the attractions team very friendly and informative; they told us about the excellent experience they provide for groups such as the free Key Stage 1-4 resources, easy coach access, lunch and risk assessment help.

First, we took the lift up to the viewing platform, 80 meters high, and after marvelling at the view we headed off to the slide which lasts a thrilling 40 seconds!

A few of us were tentative about participating but the reassuring staff provided plenty of information and put us at our ease.

So, with the feeling we would regret it later – we all took on the challenge and were not disappointed; what a fantastic thrill and great fun! We then took the lift back up, spent some more time experiencing the stunning views, taking photos and learning more about the city on the interactive touchscreens before walking back down the winding staircase with its 455 steps.

You can choose to stay the whole day in the park by taking a behind the scenes tour at the iconic London Stadium, swimming at the London Aquatics Centre or visiting the Lee Valley Velopark; alternatively, explore the parklands and waterways with a local Blue Badge guide.

After our busy morning we were all very hungry and took the short underground ride to Holborn for a slap up lunch at Belgo’s in Covent Garden and sampled their group menu. We had chosen from a three-course menu in advance which included vegetarian and gluten free options as well as the iconic mussels which Belgo’s are renowned for. We were well looked after by the Belgo team and after the fabulous meal (topped off with chocolate filled doughnuts, yum!) some of us choose to walk to our next venue for the afternoon, the Danceworks Studios in Mayfair (alternatively some travelled by underground!).

Danceworks is one of the world’s leading dance studios offering musical theatre workshops where students can leave with a new sense of what it takes to work within the West End and an increased sense of confidence. We were met by an energetic Richard, a West End actor,  who took us though a whirlwind taster of some of the workshops they offer for student groups. Even the more nervous of us, of being in the limelight, took on the challenge with full enthusiasm. After some fun warm up ice-breaker exercises Richard took us through a short scene from Wicked followed by some tutoring in fake fighting  – which was very realistic and therapeutic!

Next, the musically accomplished Lauren tested out our vocal skills with a musical theatre group tune, also from Wicked. The whole experience was thoroughly enjoyed by all and we got to see sides of each other never seen before – including some budding thespians! Finally, we headed off home – tired and inspired!

Sarah our Sales Team Leader said about the day: "For me the highlight was experiencing the Danceworks Workshops first-hand. Both teachers were amazing, and you could see how much enthusiasm they would be able to get out of the attending students. Performing Arts students would absolutely love this and it would help them to grow in confidence. The ArcelorMittal Orbit is great for a cultural visit due to the fun aspect of the slide and the brilliant views over London. As they offer subject specific workbooks, it would also be great for Art & Design, Technology, Maths, Science & Geography school trips to London."

This is just a short taster of what London has to offer, we can arrange a full day of activities and overnight accommodation as there is so much to do! School trips to London is suitable for many subjects including Art & Design, Business & Economics, Science, History, Film & Media Studies, Performing Arts as well as a general Cultural & Enrichment tour.

Give us a call and start your journey with European Study Tours today.