With a 4am departure on Friday morning, pupils began a packed three‑day itinerary designed to bring the history of the First World War vividly to life.

Over the course of the visit, pupils explored a wide range of significant sites across the Ypres Salient. At Railway Wood, they learnt about the work of the Royal Army Medical Corps, before heading to the Hooge Crater Museum, where reconstructed trenches and a simulated gas attack helped them understand the realities of trench warfare. A visit to Hill 60 offered further insight into the work of the mining crews whose dangerous underground operations shaped the course of the war.

The group also visited Essex Farm Cemetery and Advanced Dressing Station, where pupils reflected on the experiences of the young men and women who served on the Western Front. Many were struck by the fact that so many of those commemorated were only a little older than themselves.

One of the most poignant moments of the trip came on Friday evening, when pupils walked to the Menin Gate to attend the 8pm Last Post Ceremony. Dressed smartly in their school uniforms, they laid a wreath of remembrance on behalf of St Gabriel’s — a moving act of respect that will stay with them for years to come.

Across the weekend, pupils continued their exploration with visits to the Brooding Soldier Memorial, Langemark German Cemetery, Pond Farm, Tyne Cot Cemetery, and Lijssenthoek Cemetery and Casualty Clearing Station. Seeing the rows of graves — from multiple nationalities and backgrounds — offered a powerful reminder of the human cost of conflict, particularly resonant given the current global climate.

Throughout the trip, the Zeitgeist guides brought history to life with engaging talks, hands-on activities and thoughtful discussions that helped pupils connect emotionally and intellectually with the events of the past.

We are incredibly proud of our pupils for representing St Gabriel’s with maturity, curiosity and respect. Our sincere thanks go to Zeitgeist Tour Company for their exceptional guidance, and to the staff who accompanied and supported the group throughout this unforgettable experience.