Year 13 students in Media and Geography have enjoyed a five-night trip to Lanzarote in the Canary Islands, where they explored Spanish history and culture, the influence of César Manrique upon the island’s architecture and landscapes, and the geothermal activity of the Timanfaya National Park.

The trip began with a visit to the Sunday market in the historic village of Teguise, the former capital of Lanzarote. Here, students were able to buy goods from local artisans selling everything from pottery and jewellery to local cheeses and aloe vera products. There was also traditional live music and entertainment in the quaint village streets. This was followed by a visit to the César Manrique Foundation, a museum dedicated to the work of the Lanzarote-born artist, sculptor and architect, which is located in the unique house he created for himself.

A guided tour of the Timanfaya National Park, with geothermal demonstrations at Islote de Hilario, was the highlight of the trip for Geography students. This volcanic landscape is entirely made up of volcanic soil, craters and solidified lava, producing formations that are often compared to the surfaces of Mars or the Moon.

In the capital of Arrecife, students observed the contrasting style of architecture between the city and the outlying towns and villages, where buildings must be low-rise, painted white and have window frames in green or blue by law. The group saw the controversial Gran Hotel, the island’s only skyscraper, which was built in the 1970s before the regulations were introduced, and visited Castillo de San Gabriel History Museum, San Ginés Church, Charco de San Ginés lagoon, Castillo de San Jose Art Gallery, Arrecife Street Market and Calle Real main street.

The group enjoyed eating out each evening at a different restaurant in Costa Teguise, including those in the well known Plaza Pueblo Marinero square. There was also a fun excursion to the Country and Western night at Rancho Texas Park, with themed entertainment including cowboy lasso and whip demonstrations, fire eating, line dancing, cabaret show and live music with The Texas Bandits, plus an all-you-can-eat barbeque.

Director of Learning for Media, Ms Davies said, “I organise an international trip each year for two reasons; of course students return with outstanding film footage and photos for their coursework, but they also develop a passion for learning about global culture and the wider world, and gain confidence in their ability to live independently when they leave us for university or work. This is so important for a successful future.”