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Educators contemplating school trips for their science students have a wealth of options available, as valuable science lessons can be taken from almost anywhere; but choosing a destination with a reputation for scientific leadership and innovation can certainly help. Geneva is one such destination, with its exciting natural surroundings, fascinating range of museums and the jewel in its crown - the legendary CERN. For those thinking of organising a trip to this eye-opening city, here are just some of the great educational attractions that await.
Science History Museum The Musee d’Histoire des Sciences is a great starting point for science students visiting Geneva on their school trips. Suitable for all ages and covering a wide array of scientific subjects, it is bound to contain something of interest to every year group and curriculum focus, as well as helping students to understand the value of scientific history and the fact that science is an ever-developing field. Situated in an attractive park by Lake Geneva, its collections range from some of the first batteries ever made to astronomical instruments, allowing visitors to trace the evolution of several different sciences. For those studying French, this is also an excellent opportunity for cross-curricular learning, with new vocabulary to learn in abundance. CERN CERN – or the European Organisation for Nuclear Research – is one of the reasons that Geneva is a destination like no other for science-based school trips. Founded in the 1950s, when it was known as the ‘Conseil Europeen pour la Recherche Nucliaire’ (hence the acronym CERN), it has become one of the world's most important and iconic research organisations. For budding young scientists, few things could be more inspirational than a visit to the site of the biggest particle physics lab in the world, home to the famous Large Hadron Collider. In true scientific spirit, its public exhibits are all geared towards helping visitors expand their knowledge and curiosity, with displays on the institution’s history and the world of particle physics, as well as a programme of fascinating special exhibits.
Chamonix Another feature that makes Geneva such a great destination for school trips, in any subject, is its multicultural atmosphere and access to France and Italy, which widens the potential for learning about different countries, languages, and land features. One especially good day trip that can be done for science students is Chamonix in France. With its proximity to Mont Blanc, it is a fantastic opportunity to see one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring forces of nature up close: the Mer de Glace, a massive and beautiful glacier that flows from the mountain into the Chamonix valley. Also offering great curriculum links with geography, this is the perfect place to investigate glacier formation, the effects of glaciers on their surroundings, and the possibilities they provide for green energy. Angela Bowden works for EST (Equity School Travel), the UK's largest educational travel company, providing school trips for secondary schools, primary schools and colleges. School trips with EST can encompass a wide range of learning opportunities in worldwide destinations.
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