Young achievers from a West Norfolk secondary school had their hard work recognised as they enjoyed a visit to one of the UK’s most popular theme parks.
The Year 11 students from Smithdon High School in Hunstanton made the three-and-a-half-hour coach trip to Alton Towers for the school’s annual reward trip, which was first introduced in 2019.
Students enjoyed experiencing a number of rides and attractions, including the big seven coasters including Oblivion, Nemesis, Galactica, Rita, Wicker Man, Thirteen, and the notorious, 14-loop Smiler – along with new introduction Nemesis Reborn, which was launched earlier this year.
Assistant head teacher Steve Chapman who organised the event said: “Students with a good approach to school life are invited to join a trip allowing them to enjoy time with their Year group before the busy GCSE exam period.”
Accompanied by assistant head teacher Dan Ward, Year 11 tutor Natalie Carlton, cover supervisor Krista Drage, and learning support assistant Hayley Smith, the 53-strong group ate breakfast at Grantham Services on the way to the resort and also stopped there on the way home for a burger.
“Trips of this kind are important, as they allow students to spend time together in a different environment to school, as well as rewarding them for their achievements throughout their time in school," added Mr Chapman.
“It was an excellent day, thoroughly enjoyed by staff and students – and worth the 6am start.”