Learning Beyond the Classroom in Spain

We are finally back from our incredible trip to Toledo and Madrid! This trip was a real extension of our classroom where the students learned so much and grew in their independence. 

We started our adventure in the historic city of Toledo. To get to know the place, we took a little tourist “train” that showed us the old and beautiful streets.

Our stay at the convent was also a total success. It is a beautiful building from the 16th century, but with all the modern accommodations from this century that we needed to be comfortable. Living in such a historic place really made us feel the spirit of Toledo.

The kids worked very hard at Aula Toledo. They practiced a lot of Spanish: reading, writing, and especially speaking. It was so nice to see how they used what they learned in class to order their food or talk with the local people. One of the highlights of our time at the school was when they surprised us with a traditional "merienda" of chocolate with churros. It was a delicious treat, and all the students absolutely loved it! We also had very happy moments after the lessons, like a Karaoke night we organized in a "cave" that is actually located inside the school building!

For the more adventurous students, the zip lining over the Tagus River was a total hit! Seeing the river and the city from that height was a thrill they will never forget. We also had an incredible excursion to Consuegra. It was like stepping back in time; we visited the Castillo de la Muela and were even surprised by "Don Quixote" and "Sancho Panza" themselves among the famous windmills!

In Madrid, we explored the city’s grandeur with a tour of the Royal Palace of Madrid and spent time on the famous Gran Vía, where students experienced the lively atmosphere and enjoyed some shopping. Another highlight was our lunch at the Riu Plaza España restaurant. The place is impressive because it offers a 360-degree view of the entire city. The students enjoyed an incredible meal while looking at Madrid from above, the photos from there are truly spectacular.

We also visited the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home of the Real Madrid CF. During our visit, students learned how important soccer is in Spanish culture. They discovered that it is not just a sport, but a big part of daily life, bringing people together with strong passion, pride, and a sense of community. Walking through the stadium and learning about its history helped them better understand the traditions and excitement that surround soccer in Spain, making the experience even more meaningful and memorable.

But if I have to say what was the most special moment, it was definitely when we went to see the show at Puy du Fou: "El Sueño de Toledo." The students told me it was the most amazing and incredible show they have ever seen in their lives. It is a night show outdoors that tells 1,500 years of Spanish history. The stage is huge, and they use special effects with water, lights, and so many actors that leave you with your mouth open. The music and the way they present history,from the old Kings to the arrival of the railway, is something we will never forget.

I am very proud of our students. They behaved very well, showed respect, and always had a positive attitude to learn and explore. This experience helped them grow not only in their Spanish skills, but also as more independent individuals. We came back tired, but with many beautiful memories that will last a lifetime!

I would also like to thank everyone who supported this educational journey and helped make this experience possible for our students. A special thank you to our chaperones, Sra. Gonzalez  and Mr. D’Ercole, for their support, care, and dedication throughout the trip.