News

A group of enthusiastic Year 8 and 9 students from Christophers CE High School recently embarked on a thrilling journey to the Euro Space Center in Belgium, accompanied by their dedicated Science teachers. The trip, designed to ignite curiosity and passion for space exploration, was packed with educational experiences and unforgettable memories.

The adventure began late on Thursday evening as the students set off by coach, brimming with excitement. After an overnight journey, they reached Dover early Friday morning and boarded a ferry to Calais at around 8am. The long but exhilarating travel day continued, with a special stop at ‘P&J: The Factory’—a renowned Belgian chocolate-making facility. Here, the students were treated to a fascinating demonstration of the chocolate-making process and even received some delicious samples to take home—though many couldn’t resist indulging straight away!

By 5pm on Friday, the group arrived at the Euro Space Center, their home for the next few days. Saturday marked the first full day at the center, where students got the chance to experience the 'Space Rotor'—a thrilling simulation of takeoff, as well as the 'multi-axis trainer' which mimicked the sensation of being in space. They also took part in an exciting space mission simulation. The pleasant spring weather added to the enjoyment as they explored the center's grounds.

On Saturday evening, the students embarked on a torch-lit tour of the historic Château Fort de Bouillon, where they delved into the rich history of this medieval fortress.

Sunday was another action-packed day at the Euro Space Center, with students engaging in hands-on workshops and activities. From conquering the Free Fall Wall to experiencing the Moon Walk in Virtual Reality, and even building their own rockets, the day was filled with immersive learning and excitement. That evening, the students had some well-earned downtime to relax, play games, and watch films with their friends.

“Our first Euro Space trip in years was a success! Despite the long journey and limited sleep, the students enjoyed 2 jam-packed days of space-related activities. Some students proved themselves as future astronauts, able to keep their cool when exposed to 3Gs in the space rotor or while being completely disorientated in the multi-axis trainer. Perhaps some of the queasier students should stick with the physics on earth! My favourite moment was at the end of our final day as we let off the rockets that we had made. Everyone had a blast as they cheered on their rockets and ran off to find their crash sites. I hope everyone had a fantastic time and is a bit more knowledgeable about our solar system!”

- Mr Smith, trip leader

On Monday morning, after a final breakfast at the center, it was time to pack up and begin the journey home. The group arrived back at school around 9:45pm, tired but full of incredible memories and new knowledge about space exploration.

The trip was a resounding success, providing Christophers CE High School students with a unique and inspiring educational experience—one that will surely fuel their curiosity for science and space for years to come.

You can view more photos from the trip on our Facebook page via this link to the album.