“Life is an unfoldment, and the further we travel the more truth we can comprehend. To understand the things that are at our door is the best preparation for understanding those that lie beyond.” – Hypatia
In 2010 I was given an incredible and unforgettable opportunity to travel to Europe on a school history trip. It was only my second year teaching, and it was my first time travelling overseas. Our first stop was Paris, which is a city that will forever hold a special place in my heart. Along with over 45 students and four other chaperones, we experienced the beauty of France and Belgium while seeing what was learned and taught about the Canadian contributions in World War I and II. It was this trip that officially gave me the travel bug. Fast forward several years, and I have had the immense pleasure of joining students on many other trips to England, Netherlands, Italy, New York City, and back to France and Belgium. Just this past week another opportunity arose for myself and my husband to chaperone my school’s band trip to Montreal. Believe it or not, but it was my first time travelling outside of Ontario in Canada, which may be surprising considering I teach Canadian history. The experience was just as positive as the previous school trips I had been on, not just because I was able to explore a new city, but to see it through the eyes of my students as well. Whether it’s a quick local field trip, or a larger excursion like this one, getting students out of the classroom and experiencing the world around them has to be one of the most beneficial learning experiences. For some it helps them develop skills needed to be independent, but also reinforces that learning is continuous and doesn’t always have to be inside a school. From enjoying symphony performances, to seeing views from Mount Royal and the beauty of Notre Dame Basilica, our journey to Montreal was certainly one to be remembered!
