The 2024 trip to Sicily was an action-packed event for 47 intrepid GCSE Geographers this year, with an itinerary taking in all the best bits of a visit to the Italian island.

The first day, of two, included a tour of the Cyclops Riviera in the east of Sicily where students could marvel at the coastal stacks created from ancient lava flows and the black volcanic rock, followed by a short coach ride to the town of Taormina. The Greek/Roman amphitheatre here is steeped in history and with Mount Etna as a backdrop, could not be better placed. The evening meal, after some shopping opportunities, was at a traditional Italian pizza restaurant where all the students made their own pizza!

Day two started with what, for many students, was the trip highlight – river trekking. Following the course of a river flowing directly from Etna itself, the cold water and the requirement to jump off four waterfalls presented a great challenge to the students. The highest jump was from a waterfall six metres high! Fortunately, wetsuits and helmets were provided.

The afternoon’s journey up Mount Etna via cable car was exciting as the air temperature started to drop. Unfortunately, the cloud cover and weather conditions were too poor to proceed to the summit, however, students marvelled at the barren moon like conditions. And incredible scenery. Overall, it was an amazing trip enjoyed by all!