In November 2023, Emanuel School launched their inaugural double-day Y11 Latin/Classics trip to Kent. This was a groundbreaking venture as we understand we are the only school in London to offer this amazing trip.
We visited the splendour of Richborough Roman Fort, where Julius Caesar began his slightly pants invasion campaign. The weather was atrocious, with Storm Ciaran mixing it up, and we could empathise with Caesar subsequently hot-footing it back to sun-basked Rome.
Mr Morrison and Miss Aitken-Burt led a guided tour of the fort – an enormous site and good value for money (free for students!) The small museum and shop were excellent. Mr Adams left his trademark modest comment in the visitors’ book. We nearly bade a sad farewell to the legendary Mr Morrison, who almost fell ‘exanimatus’ when sprung upon by sword-wielding Max on departure.Onto Canterbury itself. A delightful old town. On alighting from the luxury coach, we meandered through the river walk, with its stunning vistas and waterfalls, to the centre of town. To the students’ delight, all the old favourites were there – Wagamama, Starbucks, Pizza Express and Mr Adams.
The students then visited Canterbury Cathedral. Mr Adams gave a tour, and a brief yet unboring lecture on the Archbishop of Canterbury and his ‘yard’. We then took part in a group prayer for our GCSE results (see picture). Some students were required to pray harder than others.
We also visited the Museum, where students donned Roman military gear and beheld the stunning pavement mosaic. Top that, Villa Romana del Casale – lightweights!
Then a trip to the shop where Mr Adams bought £2 Canterbury Cathedral chocolate coins for the staff, described as a rip-off by most Y11 students. Mr Adams was unflappable at these contumelious utterances. Said chocolates were gratefully received by a ravenous department.
After churchy-poos, lunch was enjoyed by all – especially the staff! The Wagamama branch at Canterbury will miss us.
Many thanks to Mr Morrison, Miss Aitken-Burt, Miss Ferstman and Ms Philp for all their help on the trip.
Onwards!
Mr Adams (Head of Classics)