During October half term 72 Gilingham sixth form students travelled to the Spanish coast for the school’s biennial surf trip. This ever-popular trip was a great opportunity to learn new skills, experience a different culture, spend time with friends and get to know new people. The students met at school with suitcases stuffed to bursting, excited to depart on the adventure. For some it was their first time abroad, and for many it was their first experience of travelling without their families. The more experienced travellers quickly eased the nerves of those who were feeling anxious about flying, setting the tone for a supportive and friendly trip.
The beautiful coastline at Somo, in Cantabria, enjoys waves suited to all skill levels. The students immediately took advantage of the Surf Houses social spaces, including the pool table, hammock-adorned decks and volleyball court.
Fortunately the food was also fabulous as the surfing required high energy levels: a two hour surf lesson each morning was followed by a variety of optional activities in the afternoons. Some decided to continue to hone their surfing skills while others opted to go into town to buy souvenirs and browse the shops. Still more enjoyed some quiet time reading, chatting with friends in the hammocks, walking the shoreline or playing football. After a busy day, the delicious homemade burgers and paella were definitely appreciated by all, before the evenings were filled with pool competitions, volleyball tournaments, quizzes and a movie night – introducing a whole new generation to the classic surf film Point Break.
Mid-week, the students took the ferry to Santander for a shopping and site-seeing day, allowing the students the opportunity to explore the local culture.
By the end of the week there was a real sense of pride among the group with how far their surfing skills had come – many came home with firm plans to buy a surf board! Staff accompanying the trip said the pupils were a delight to spend time with, and were a credit to themselves and the school.
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