On arrival, we were welcomed by Heather from the School Liaison Team and after an introduction to Trinity College and the wider University of Cambridge, we were given a tour of the historic college. Established by Henry VIII in 1546, Trinity boasts a remarkable list of world-famous alumni including Isaac Newton, Francis Bacon, Lord Byron, A. A. Milne, Vladimir Nabokov and King Charles III.

After a fantastic lunch in the college’s impressive dining hall (think Hogwarts!), the afternoon focused on how GCSE subject choices can open doors to future opportunities and careers. This was followed by a Q&A session with current Cambridge students.

The aim of the trip, organised by Hellesdon Sixth Form, was to raise the aspirations of our brightest Year 9 students and encourage them to think about aiming high for the future. 

Mr. Taylor Director of Sixth Form said "There are not many places in the world where you can go into a library designed by a Sir Christopher Wren (of St Paul’s Cathedral fame), and see an original maths book written by Sir Isaac Newton, next to an original Shakespeare play, beside a journal written by Charles Darwin (where he disagrees with his teachers over evolution!). If that's not impressive enough next to those is an original A. A.  Milne Winnie the Pooh book!

Student reflections:

"The history behind the college is amazing — it really makes you want to study there." - Max C

"With its prestigious academic atmosphere and incredible history, Trinity College was an inspiring place to visit"  - Alex W

Finally, well done to all of our Year 9 students, and a huge thank you to the staff who supported and accompanied the trip.