London Heathrow to Johannesburg
With bags packed and excitement building, our pupils arrived at London Heathrow ready to begin their epic journey to Johannesburg. For many, this was their first time flying abroad, making the start of this incredible South Africa adventure even more memorable.
Welcome to Cedarwood Preparatory School
Walking into Cedarwood Preparatory School for the first time was a moment to remember. We were welcomed with such warmth, care and enthusiasm, and our pupils immediately felt at home. It was the perfect start to a visit that would be full of learning, friendship and shared experiences.
Buddy Groups
Being part of buddy groups gave our pupils the chance to get to know Cedarwood pupils in a meaningful and memorable way. Through shared activities, conversations and laughter, new friendships quickly began to grow, making the cultural exchange even more special.
Cedarwood and Tollgate Staff Photo
Behind every memorable trip is a team of dedicated staff, and this photo reflects the wonderful partnership between Cedarwood and Tollgate. Their warmth, collaboration and shared commitment to the children helped make every moment of the visit both meaningful and special.
Shosholoza
Taking part in Shosholoza gave our pupils a wonderful opportunity to connect with South African culture through music and shared experience. The rhythm, meaning and sense of community within the song made it a powerful moment in the visit. It was lovely to see our children singing with such confidence and joy, standing alongside their Cedarwood friends and enjoying a cultural tradition that brought everyone together in such a memorable way.
Break Time
Break time gave our pupils the chance to relax, have fun and enjoy spending time with their new friends from Cedarwood. Some made the most of the large outdoor chess set, testing their skills and thinking carefully about each move, while others enjoyed chatting, laughing and soaking up the South African sunshine together. These quieter moments were just as special as the planned activities, as they gave friendships the chance to grow naturally.
African Beading Lesson
Taking part in the African Beading lesson allowed our pupils to learn about South African culture in a creative, thoughtful and memorable way. They discovered that beadwork is more than decoration, as it can carry meaning, express identity and reflect tradition. Our children approached the activity with real care and enthusiasm, and it was wonderful to watch them produce their own beautiful designs while gaining a deeper appreciation of the culture around them.
Learning Afrikaans
Taking part in an Afrikaans lesson was a really memorable part of the visit, as it encouraged our pupils to step out of their comfort zones and try something completely new. They listened, repeated, practised and supported one another as they learned words and phrases that helped them communicate in a different language. It was a valuable reminder of how language can bring people together and open the door to new friendships and understanding.
Swimming Gala
The Swimming Gala was one of the most lively and enjoyable parts of the visit, giving our pupils the chance to take part in an event full of energy, encouragement and shared celebration. They showed enthusiasm, resilience and real team spirit throughout, while also supporting their Cedarwood friends with just as much excitement. It was a memorable experience that brought everyone together and added even more joy to an already unforgettable trip.
Journaling
One of the most thoughtful parts of our visit was the time pupils spent journaling on most evenings after returning to the hotel. After busy days full of learning, adventure and new experiences, these moments allowed them to reflect on what had stood out, what had surprised them and what they would remember most. Their journals became a personal record of the trip, filled with reflections, memories and the excitement of everything they were discovering.
Acting out African Folk Stories with Accompanying Music
Taking part in African folk stories with accompanying music was a real highlight of the visit. Pupils were invited to step into the stories themselves, using action, voice and expression to bring each tale to life. The music made the experience even more special, helping to create mood, excitement and a strong sense of connection to the story being told. It was a lovely opportunity for our children to learn through creativity while gaining a deeper appreciation of South African culture.
Inyamazane Farm
Our visit to Inyamazane Farm was a wonderful hands-on learning experience, giving pupils the chance to explore the process of making cheese and learn more about how local produce is made. They were fascinated to see how the cheese was created and thoroughly enjoyed being introduced to a range of delicious homemade local cheeses and other fabulous foods. It was a memorable visit that combined learning, discovery and tasting in a way that pupils found both enjoyable and engaging.
Breaktime in the pool!
The hotel pool was a much-loved part of our evenings, giving pupils a chance to relax and recharge after each day’s activities. Surrounded by the beautiful South African weather, they enjoyed spending time in the water, laughing together and making even more special memories. These moments of fun and friendship were a wonderful part of the trip and added to the joy of the whole experience.
Dinner at 'The Hard Rock Cafe'
One of the most enjoyable evenings of the trip was our dinner at The Hard Rock Cafe, where pupils were able to unwind, share a meal and enjoy the lively atmosphere together. As the evening also coincided with Eid, it became an especially meaningful occasion for many of our children, who were able to celebrate this important moment surrounded by friends and staff. It was a lovely blend of fun, reflection and shared celebration.
Bothongo Rhino and Lion Reserve
For many of our pupils, the trip to the Bothongo Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve was one of the most magical parts of the whole visit. Seeing wildlife in such a beautiful natural setting brought a real sense of awe and excitement, and the game drive created memories that will stay with them for years to come. It was not only a thrilling experience, but also a valuable opportunity to learn more about the natural environment and the importance of caring for it.
Visit to the First National Bank Stadium
Stopping for a photo outside the First National Bank Stadium gave our pupils the chance to visit a landmark that is woven into both South African sport and national history. Also known as FNB Stadium or Soccer City, it first opened in 1989 and later became world famous as the venue for key matches in the 2010 FIFA World Cup, including the final. The stadium is also closely linked with Nelson Mandela, who addressed supporters there in 1990 after his release from prison, making it a place of real historical importance.
Nelson Mandela's House
A visit to Nelson Mandela’s House gave our pupils the chance to experience one of Soweto’s most important historical landmarks. Located on Vilakazi Street, the house was home to Nelson Mandela and his family and has since become a museum preserving his story and legacy. Being there in person made the history feel immediate and real, and it was a valuable moment for pupils to reflect on the life of a leader whose impact reached far beyond South Africa.
Computer Programming
The Computer Programming lesson using Scratch was a brilliant opportunity for pupils to develop digital skills while enjoying a creative and interactive challenge. They learned how coding can be built step by step, using simple commands to create something of their own, and it was wonderful to see them so engaged in the process. The experience helped build both confidence and curiosity, showing that programming can be something exciting, accessible and fun.
Cultural Exchange Assembly
Our Cultural Exchange Assembly was a fitting and memorable celebration of everything the visit had come to represent. Bringing pupils and staff together, it highlighted the friendships formed, the cultural learning experienced and the shared memories created along the way. It was wonderful to see both schools celebrating one another with such warmth and pride, making the assembly a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of the trip.
