Broadening horizons

Exchange programmes

The benefits to be gained from international travel tie in naturally with the global outlook of St Leonards and the International Baccalaureate. Our exchange programmes have been running for a number of years. They give pupils the chance to travel abroad and to develop real friendships and lasting ties.

Every two years, students studying French in Year 11 travel to the Alfred de Vigny School in Loches, in France’s Loire Valley.

Every Spring, pupils studying German in Year 10 set off for Sankt Benno Gymnasium, our partner school in Dresden for a week-long adventure.

The students from the French and German schools also visit St Andrews for the return legs of the exchanges.

Further foreign trips

In Years 7-13, trips are also organised to the likes of Iceland, Salamanca, Florence, Sorrento, Verona, Venice and Rome to provide enhanced learning experiences in Languages, Geography and Classics. Every two years, Drama students have the opportunity to travel to Italy or New York for an unforgettable performing arts experience. For those keen on winter sports, opportunity comes in the form of a ski trip to the Alps, most recently to Serre Chevalier.

Closer to home

The School takes full advantage of its position in the ancient town of St Andrews. Minutes after leaving their classrooms on foot, Junior and Senior pupils can be learning about the history of St Andrews Cathedral and St Andrews Castle, visiting the Museum of the University of St Andrews or surveying the geological landscape of the East Sands Beach.

Across the UK more widely, trips are organised to destinations including Blackpool and Malham (Geography), the Isle of Cumbrae (Biology) and Hadrian's Wall (History and Latin), all of which provide fantastic opportunities for pupils.