Holderness Academy
Holderness Horizons – Experiences Beyond the Classroom
ASPIRATIONAL We aim high, complete all work to the best of our ability and support others to achieve the same.
RESILIENT We arrive on time to all lessons with the correct uniform, equipment and ready for learning. We never give up and we love a challenge.
RESPECTFUL We respect ourselves, all members of our school and wider community, following instructions without question or answering back.
KIND manners. We We are are friendly, friendly, We value good manners. generous and considerate. considerate.
Welcome to Holderness Mr Holder, Headteacher
At Holderness Academy, we believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom walls.
Developing cultural capital means giving students the experiences, knowledge and confidence they need to succeed in modern society. Through our trips and visits programme, students encounter new cultures, ideas and opportunities that broaden their understanding of the world.
Educational trips and visits play a vital role in enriching our students’ experiences, broadening their horizons and developing the cultural
We are committed to ensuring that every student has access to a rich
capital that helps them thrive both academically and personally.
and varied programme of educational experiences. By investing in trips and visits, we invest in our students’ futures, equipping them with the
Every visit—whether to a museum, theatre, university, place of worship,
understanding and confidence needed to achieve their full potential.
historical site, business or outdoor environment—provides valuable opportunities for students to engage with the world around them. These experiences bring learning to life, deepen understanding and
We look forward to sharing these
inspire curiosity in ways that cannot always be replicated in the
exciting opportunities with you and
classroom.
continuing to inspire our students through learning beyond the classroom. 03
Social Sciences
AUSCHWITZ Our Auschwitz and Krakow Educational Visit, open to Year 9 and Year 10 students and running every other year, offers a powerful opportunity to learn about one of the most important periods in modern history.
Students visit the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, where guided tours help deepen their understanding of the Holocaust, remembrance, and the importance of tolerance, respect, and human rights. Alongside these educational visits, students also experience the culture and heritage of Poland through excursions to the famous Wieliczka Salt Mines and Krakow Old Town. The trip provides a memorable experience beyond the classroom, helping students develop independence, empathy, and a broader understanding of the world around them.
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WWI BATTLEFIELDS Each year, our Year 9–10 students take part in a history visit to the First World War battlefields of Ypres (in Belgium) and the Somme (in France). This visit provides a powerful opportunity for students to engage directly with the landscapes and sites they study in lessons. During the trip, students visit key locations such as preserved trenches, cemeteries, and memorials including Tyne Cot Cemetery, the Menin Gate, and sites along the Somme such as Beaumont-Hamel and Thiepval Memorial. They take part in guided tours, examine artefacts in museums, and reflect on the experiences of soldiers through personal stories. A particularly memorable moment is attending the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate, which helps students appreciate the commemoration of those who lost their lives. The visit strongly supports our curriculum by bringing to life key topics studied in Year 9, including trench warfare, conditions on the Western Front, the human impact of war, and remembrance. It deepens students’ understanding through experiential learning, helping them make meaningful connections between historical events and the real locations where they occurred, while also encouraging reflection on the significance and legacy of the First World War.
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LINCOLN CASTLE Our Year 7 students take part in an educational visit to Lincoln Castle,
following the Norman Conquest. They visit the Victorian prison, learning about crime and punishment over time, and have the opportunity to see one of the original copies of the Magna Carta, helping them understand
offering an engaging introduction to
its importance in the development of rights and governance.
medieval history.
Interactive sessions and guided tours encourage students to ask
The trip allows students to explore a significant historical site and develop their understanding of life in medieval England through direct experience. During the visit, students explore the castle walls, towers, and grounds, gaining insight into its defensive features and strategic importance
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questions, handle historical ideas, and imagine what life was like for people living and working in and around the castle. This visit links closely to the Year 7 curriculum, particularly units on the Norman Conquest, medieval society, and the development of law and order. By experiencing the setting firsthand, students deepen their understanding of key historical concepts such as power, control, and justice, while building enthusiasm and curiosity for the study of history.
COURT TRIPS Court visits provide a valuable real-world insight into the criminal
trial from start to finish, considering evidence, questioning witnesses, and reaching a verdict. Students also have the opportunity to interact with legal professionals, gaining insight into different career pathways
justice system and help students
and the functioning of the legal system. The experience encourages
understand how laws are applied in
critical thinking, discussion, and reflection on issues such as fairness,
practice.
bias, and decision-making. This visit directly supports the Year 10 Psychology and Sociology
Our Year 10 Psychology and Sociology students take part in an educational visit to Sheffield Magistrates’ Court, where they participate in a mock trial experience. During the visit, students take on active roles within a simulated court case, including magistrates, legal representatives, witnesses, and members of the public gallery. They follow the process of a criminal
curricula. In Sociology, it links to topics such as crime and deviance, social control, and the role of institutions in maintaining order. In Psychology, it complements the study of memory, eyewitness testimony, and factors influencing behaviour and decision-making. By engaging in a practical, immersive activity, students deepen their understanding of abstract concepts and develop a more informed perspective on the justice system.
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YORKSHIRE WILDLIFE PARK Following their study of Animal Adaptations in Year 7, students will have the opportunity to visit Yorkshire Wildlife Park and observe many of the animals they have explored in lessons. This engaging trip brings classroom learning to life, allowing students to see how different species have evolved to survive in a variety of habitats around the world. As part of the visit, students will take part in a specialist educational workshop led by the park's expert staff. During this interactive session, students will investigate biological artefacts such as skulls, fur, and claws, while exploring how these adaptations help animals survive. The workshop also provides the exciting opportunity to safely handle a range of live animals, including snakes, cockroaches, and giant African land snails. This memorable experience enhances students' understanding of adaptation, biodiversity, and animal survival through hands-on learning in a real-world setting.
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THE DEEP To enhance their study of climate change and its impacts on the world's oceans, Year 9 students will have the
As part of the experience, students will participate in an educational
opportunity to visit The Deep and
workshop led by The Deep's expert staff. Through interactive activities
explore how environmental change is
and discussions, students will investigate the links between climate
affecting marine ecosystems.
change, ocean health, and life on Earth, exploring how changes to marine environments can have far-reaching global consequences.
This engaging visit allows students to connect classroom learning with
This enriching trip enhances students' understanding of climate
real-world examples, developing a deeper understanding of the
change and sustainability while providing a memorable opportunity to
challenges facing our oceans and the importance of protecting them.
learn from one of the UK's leading aquariums and conservation centres.
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DALBY FOREST As part of the GCSE Geography course, Year 10 students will take part in a
During the visit, students will carry out a detailed river study at two locations within the forest, developing practical fieldwork and data collection skills. Using the Bradshaw Model as a framework, students
compulsory fieldwork visit to Dalby
will investigate how river characteristics change downstream by
Forest.
collecting and analysing data on sediment size, river velocity, and
This river investigation forms an important component of the GCSE specification and provides valuable preparation for questions that will be assessed in the final examinations in Year 11.
channel depth. This hands-on fieldwork experience enables students to apply geographical theory in a real-world environment, strengthening their understanding of river processes while building the enquiry and analytical skills required for GCSE success.
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FLAMBOROUGH As part of their study of coasts and coastal environments, Year 8 students
During the visit, students will also take part in an educational workshop at the Living Seas Centre, led by expert staff. These engaging sessions focus on topics linked to the curriculum, including coastal ecosystems,
will have the opportunity to visit
plastic pollution, and rockpool habitats. Students will have the
Flamborough, one of the UK's most
opportunity to participate in interactive activities and gain valuable
distinctive coastal landscapes.
hands-on experience collecting and analysing data from Flamborough's beaches.
This fieldwork experience allows students to observe a range of coastal
This exciting trip develops students' geographical knowledge and
landforms first-hand, helping to bring classroom learning to life and
fieldwork skills while providing a memorable opportunity to explore and
deepen their understanding of coastal processes.
investigate a dynamic coastal environment.
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ICELAND Our exciting Geography trip to Iceland is a unique opportunity for Years 10 and 11
Highlights of the visit include the famous Golden Circle, where students will witness spectacular waterfalls, geothermal features, and the rift valley between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The
students to explore one of the world's
itinerary also includes a visit to the world-renowned Blue Lagoon,
most fascinating natural environments.
allowing students to experience Iceland's geothermal energy in action
Running every other year, this popular trip offers students the chance to experience Iceland's dramatic landscapes, powerful geological processes, and distinctive culture first-hand.
while enjoying one of the country's most iconic attractions. The trip directly supports key areas of the Geography curriculum, including tectonic activity, volcanic landscapes, geothermal energy, and fieldwork skills. Through first-hand experiences, students will deepen their geographical understanding while creating unforgettable memories in one of the world's most remarkable environments.
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As part of their GCSE Philosophy & Ethics studies, Year 11 students have the opportunity to visit Bradford Grand Mosque. Having studied both Christianity and Islam as part of the GCSE course, this visit provides a valuable opportunity to deepen
BRADFORD
students' understanding of Islamic beliefs, practices, and places of worship through first-hand experience. During the visit, students will tour the
MOSQUE
mosque's impressive facilities, including the main prayer halls and the washrooms used for Wudu (ritual purification). A key highlight of the day is the opportunity to take part in a question-and-answer session with an Imam, enabling students to explore topics linked to the GCSE specification and gain insights into Islam from a practising religious leader. This enriching experience brings classroom learning to life, helping students develop a greater understanding of religious beliefs, practices, and diversity, while encouraging thoughtful discussion and reflection on key themes within the GCSE course.
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HULL VINEYARD To enhance their understanding of Christian beliefs and practices, Year 10
Throughout the day, students will take part in a variety of engaging sessions, exploring topics such as the church's outreach and community work, the structure and purpose of a typical Sunday service, and the
students have the opportunity to visit
role of faith in the lives of its members. A highlight of the visit is the
Hull Vineyard Church and gain
open question-and-answer session, where students are encouraged to
first-hand experience of contemporary Christian worship and community life. This visit offers students a fascinating insight into a modern church environment, often challenging traditional expectations of what a church looks like and how it operates.
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ask thoughtful questions and engage in meaningful discussions with members of the church. Through this immersive learning opportunity, students can bring classroom studies to life, developing a deeper understanding of Christianity in the modern world while enhancing their knowledge of beliefs, practices, and the role of religion within contemporary society.
Physical Education
AUSTRIA SKI TRIP Our Ski Trip to Radstadt, Austria, open to Year 9–11 students and running
Alongside learning and improving their skiing techniques, students are immersed in Austrian culture, experiencing the traditions, cuisine, and hospitality of a traditional alpine town. Surrounded by the breathtaking
annually during the February half-term,
scenery of the Austrian Alps, students enjoy spectacular mountain
offers an exciting opportunity to
views and gain an appreciation for the natural environment beyond the
experience alpine life while developing new sporting skills in a stunning mountain environment.
classroom. The trip provides a memorable international experience that broadens students’ cultural awareness and understanding of life in another country. The visit also helps students develop resilience, independence, teamwork, and self-confidence as they challenge themselves in
Students receive up to four hours of professional ski instruction each
unfamiliar surroundings. It supports learning within Physical Education
day, with lessons tailored to their individual ability level, allowing both
by reinforcing concepts such as skill acquisition, coordination, balance,
beginners and experienced skiers to progress and gain confidence on
fitness, and the importance of maintaining an active and healthy
the slopes.
lifestyle.
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Creative Arts
YORKSHIRE SCULPTURE PARK Our annual Creative Arts visit to the Yorkshire Sculpture Park (YSP) is open
Set within 500 acres of historic parkland, YSP offers a unique opportunity for students to explore art in an inspiring outdoor environment. The park is home to large-scale, open-air sculptures by
to Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4
renowned Yorkshire artists such as Henry Moore and Barbara
students.
Hepworth, alongside a wide range of contemporary works. This visit is designed to enrich classroom learning by allowing students to engage directly with art in a real-world setting. Students will develop their observational, analytical and creative skills while experiencing how sculptures interact with landscape and space.
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LONDON ARTS
During the trip, students explore some of the capital’s most renowned galleries and museums, including Tate Britain, the Saatchi Gallery, the British Museum, and the National Gallery. This immersive experience allows students to engage directly with significant works of art and design. The research and first-hand observations gathered during the
Our annual Creative Arts residential visit to London is an exciting
visit will directly support and inform students’ coursework, enriching their portfolios and strengthening their creative practice.
opportunity open to Key Stage 4 students.
HULL TRUCK Within the Performing Arts curriculum, students have opportunities to visit the theatre to enhance their cultural capital, support curriculum learning, and increase awareness of local practitioners and career opportunities within the performing arts.
For example, students enjoyed a performance of Teechers by local playwright John Godber at Hull Truck Theatre, gaining valuable insight into physical theatre, multi-roling, and minimalist staging in a professional context. The experience strengthened their understanding of performance techniques and key themes explored in Drama. A post-show talk with the cast provided first-hand insight into the realities
These visits complement wider opportunities within the department to
of working in the industry, including rehearsal processes, career
experience musical theatre and live performance, helping students to
pathways, and the skills required to succeed. Students engaged
develop their cultural understanding through exposure to high-quality
confidently, asking thoughtful questions and deepening their awareness
events at a local, regional, and national level.
of theatre as both an art form and profession.
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Science
STEM CHALLENGES To enhance their understanding of key scientific concepts, particularly forces,
Working in teams of six, students are challenged to plan, design, build, and refine a model aircraft, testing and adapting their ideas throughout
motion, and aerodynamics, Year 8
the process. The challenge promotes innovation and resilience as
students have the opportunity to take
students evaluate their designs and make improvements based on their
part in an exciting STEM Aircraft Challenge delivered by an external provider.
findings. A key part of the experience is the opportunity for teams to present their designs and decision-making processes to their peers, developing confidence in communication and presentation skills. Through this interactive learning experience, students gain valuable insight into the
This engaging experience encourages students to apply their creativity, teamwork, and practical skills to a real-world design task.
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engineering design cycle while developing the collaboration and critical-thinking skills that are essential for future STEM studies and careers.
To enhance their understanding of how Science and wider STEM subjects are applied in the real world, students will have the opportunity to attend events relating to STEM careers, exploring a wide range of pathways across Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths. This year, Year 9 students visited the MKM Stadium for an engaging STEM Careers event. This exciting opportunity allowed students to explore how STEM subjects are used both locally and across the UK. Throughout the event, a variety of local and national STEM employers hosted interactive stalls and activities. Students had the chance to
The annual Science Triathlon offers Year 10 students an exciting
engage with professionals from sectors including engineering and
opportunity to compete against other
construction, healthcare such as the NHS, and communications
local schools in a series of three A-Level
organisations such as Kingston Communications. These hands-on
style practical challenges.
experiences helped students understand how classroom learning links directly to real-life industries and future careers. This inspiring visit broadened students’ awareness of STEM opportunities, helping them to make more informed choices about their future pathways while developing their curiosity and ambition.
This engaging event allows students to apply and extend their scientific knowledge in a competitive and collaborative environment. The practical tasks are designed to build on the skills and understanding developed at Key Stage 4, while also introducing students to elements of A-Level Science content. This provides a valuable stretch and challenge opportunity, encouraging students to think more deeply, work precisely, and apply their knowledge in unfamiliar contexts. Through this experience, students develop confidence in practical investigation, teamwork, and problem-solving, while gaining a clear insight into the demands and expectations of post-16 Science study.
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Holderness Academy
Holderness Academy Station Road, Preston, Hull, HU12 8UZ Tel: (01482) 899315, office@holderness.academy
holderness.acad All information is correct at time of printing and is subject to change without notice.