Oulton Academy Students Return from Unforgettable Iceland Adventure
Students from Oulton Academy returned yesterday from an awe-inspiring international field trip to Iceland, where they spent several days exploring the country’s dramatic landscapes, engaging in hands-on geographical learning, and developing key life skills.
Led by Ms Vale and a dedicated team of staff, the Year 10 students embraced every moment of the trip—from glacier hikes and geothermal wonders to cultural experiences and team bonding. The visit was organised in partnership with Rayburn Tours and supported by Field Study Tutor Val Vannet, who shared glowing feedback about the group.
“Your students and their accompanying staff were a credit to Oulton Academy,” wrote Val in a letter to Principal John Higgins. “They were polite, courteous, friendly, and genuinely supportive of one another. Their enthusiasm for all that we saw and did was very evident. It is rare for me to be with such well-behaved young people with such a positive attitude.”
Val, a former Deputy Head and Head of Geography with over 40 years of teaching experience, praised both students and staff for their commitment, organisation, and conduct throughout the trip. He added, “The difference between a good field trip and a poor one is not the students, the weather or the destination—but the staff. Ms Vale and her colleagues were exemplary.”
Parents also shared heartfelt thanks. One wrote:
“My child had an amazing time—he showed us his photos and told us about the glacier hike that he enjoyed the most."
Principal John Higgins reflected on the wider impact of the trip:
“Experiences like this are about more than just geography—they’re about personal development, life skills, and life chances. Our students return not only with memories, but with greater independence, confidence, and a deeper understanding of the world around them.”
The Iceland 2025 trip stands as a shining example of Oulton Academy’s commitment to enriching education beyond the classroom, and providing students with opportunities that shape their futures.
