Students from the Junior High School and High School of Mary N. Raptou Schools had the exceptional opportunity to experience life on the campus of Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, as part of an educational trip organized by the school from July 2nd to 9th. They were accompanied by English language teachers F. Topalidou, K. Staxtari, M. Manta, and Theology teacher Th. Mylonas.
During their stay, students had the chance to interact and live alongside peers of various nationalities, an experience that was both highly engaging and a great opportunity to make new friends.
After taking a placement test, students attended a series of English language courses taught by native-speaking instructors, allowing them to improve and practice their English skills. On the final day, they were awarded Certificates of Attendance in a simple graduation ceremony.
The afternoon recreational activities and educational excursions organized by the university were equally noteworthy.
In the historic town of Stirling, students visited the imposing 15th-century castle where Mary, Queen of Scots, was crowned. They also saw the Wallace Monument — known from the film Braveheart — and the Holy Rude Church, where the infant James VI of Scotland was crowned. At Loch Lomond, they enjoyed a beautiful cruise.
There were frequent visits to the city of Edinburgh, often referred to as the “Athens of the North.” Students toured its famous castle, a historic fortress dating back to the 12th century, situated at the highest point of the city and a landmark of the Scottish capital. At the National Museum of Scotland — ranked among the top 10 most-visited attractions in the UK and in the top 20 museums worldwide, with over 20,000 exhibits — they journeyed through Scotland’s history, natural wonders, global heritage and cultures, and the fascinating world of science and discovery.
At Calton Hill, they enjoyed panoramic views of the city and took photos with the unfinished acropolis in the background — a structure whose construction began in 1814 as an attempt to replicate our very own Parthenon!
The students were also guided through the impressive Scottish Parliament building, known for its postmodern architecture. They walked along the Royal Mile, an iconic street connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse — the official residence of the King in Scotland. They enjoyed street performances, shopped along the commercial Princes Street, relaxed in the city’s beautiful parks to the sound of traditional bagpipes, and attended the musical Dear Evan Hansen.
The students returned to Greece thrilled by this unique and unforgettable educational experience in an international learning environment!
