Year 8 Rome & Sorrento Trip 2026

Day 1 – How early is too early?47 Year 8 students gathered at 1:30am to begin their journey to Italy. After a smooth flight and coach transfer to Rome, we dropped our bags and sampled our first Italian treats at a local bakery, where Mr Williams claimed the free teacher pizza slice.

We then used Rome’s public transport to visit the Baths of Diocletian, followed by the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. Dinner was a four-course feast, with the cleanest plates I’ve ever seen on a school trip, compliments to the chef!

Day 2 – Vatican & Ancient Rome

After an early start and a full Italian breakfast (with a sweet second course), we travelled to the Vatican to explore the Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, which had been freshly restored. The morning was rounded off with views of St Peter’s Basilica (and McDonald’s, at the students’ request). We then visited the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum. Despite the busy day, there was still energy for souvenirs and gelato, with Mr West securing the free pot this time.

Day 3 – Napoli

We travelled to Naples to explore the underground aqueduct, later used as a WWII bunker. After more pizza and gelato for lunch, we continued to our hotel in Sorrento, arriving in time to enjoy a stunning sunset over the Bay of Naples.

Day 4 – Pompeii & Vesuvio

The day began with a tour of Pompeii, offering a fascinating glimpse into life before the eruption in 79 AD. Students were particularly interested in the plaster casts and newly excavated areas. After a quick lunch (cue more pizza and gelato), we climbed Mount Vesuvio. Everyone reached the top and was rewarded with spectacular views across the Bay of Naples.

Day 5 – Sorrento

After checking out, we visited Sorrento town centre and visited the “Sorrento Experience,” an interactive look at the town’s history and experiencing an eruption of Vesuvio. Students then had free time to explore before enjoying a final gelato reward for keeping rooms tidy with a free pot claimed by all staff. We then headed to Naples airport, with a well-earned rest on the flight home.

The students were exceptional throughout, taking the long days, busy public transport and Italian culture in their stride. Both flight crews praised their conduct on the plane with an opportunity to visit the flight deck on landing at Gatwick. Everyone was relieved to be greeted by the coach back to school to bring a long term to an end.

My personal thanks go to Mr Norfolk, Miss Hall, Mrs Prest, Mr Williams and Mrs Thompson (Finance) for their invaluable support in preparing and running the trip.

Mr A West

Trip Leader