Transformational Baltic and Nordic Study Trip for 32 Cherwell School Students

Year 12 students from Cherwell School, Oxford are preparing for a once-in-a-lifetime fully-funded international experience to Estonia and Finland this April.

After two years of lockdown restrictions, funding from the Turing Scheme has enabled the chance for a transformative, unique adventure and study opportunity. A group of thirty-two Year 12 students for whom travel would not normally be possible will be funded to spend sixteen days in Finland and Estonia. Cherwell School will partner with local schools in Tallinn, Rovaniemi and Helsinki to learn about sustainability and culture. Given the developing geopolitical and humanitarian situation in Ukraine and Russia, learning about the complex historical and cultural context of the Baltic region is particularly prescient.

The Turing Scheme is the UK’s global programme to study and work abroad enabling students to develop new skills, gain international experience and boost their employability.

The trip is designed to help students develop personal skills through group travel. Students have begun a preparatory programme, researching a specialist theme of their choice and completing a series of sustainability, personal growth and fundraising challenges. After the trip, students will complete a legacy programme, using their experiences to teach younger students about the region and continuing their international partnerships.

Academic Enrichment Coordinator and English teacher, Charlotte Richer, said: “We know that learning outside the classroom can empower students, unlock their potential and help them to embrace (safe) risk. We are excited that this trip will inspire new interests, forge new connections and give students the impetus, belief and investment they need to thrive in their A Level studies too. ”

Molly, 16, said: ““I haven’t left the UK before so I’m looking forward to simply being exposed to a new and different culture, meeting Finnish students, connecting with new landscapes and travelling by so many modes of transport! I won’t take any moment for granted.”

Kaiden, 16, said: “I’d love to see the Northern Lights - though the temperature will be challenging! I’ve never stayed away from home for long, so I hope this trip will show me that I can push myself to do new challenges.” 

During the trip, students will spend time in Finnish and Estonian classrooms working alongside local students on joint projects themed around sustainability, education and politics. They will hear from staff at the Finnish and Estonian embassies, study at local libraries and complete self-guided tours.

The Turing Scheme grant covers basic cost of living, travel and accommodation but it does not include trip activities. In order to give students unforgettable experiences unique to Finland and Estonia - such as lake swimming, aurorae hunting and sampling traditional food - the group are seeking sponsorship and donations from individuals and businesses (contact: cricher@cherwellschool.org).

 
Timon, 16, said: “This feels like something from the movies! It’s a whole new experience, a whole new lifestyle and I cannot wait to see what I’ll learn about myself from the trip.”