Students from Cowes Enterprise College, part of Ormiston Academies Trust, have had an unforgettable experience in Spain as part of their Spanish exchange programme.
The young students took part in an immersive trip which gave them an incredible opportunity to explore Spanish history, culture, and industry while practising their language skills.
Wine-making experience
During their time in La Rioja, students visited Bodegas Franco Espanolas, a renowned winery in Logrono. Wine production is one of the region’s principal industries, and students learned about the entire winemaking process.
Both students and teachers had the chance to sample mosto, grape juice before fermentation begins—gaining a real insight into this key aspect of local heritage.
Exploring the ancient city
The group also travelled to Zaragoza, where they admired the architecture of the city’s cathedral before heading to one of Spain’s largest shopping malls.
Students said another highlight was a trip to Contrebia Leucade, an ancient pre-Roman city nestled in the mountains of La Rioja, where they explored the remains of historic homes and walked along the very streets that once thrived with life before the city ultimately surrendered to the Romans.
Local government
A visit to the town hall in Calahorra gave students the unique opportunity to sit in the official decision-making chamber, where they met the mayoress and a former mayor, who now serves as a senator in the Spanish parliament.
The students represented the school with impeccable behaviour, demonstrating maturity and respect throughout their visit.
Bird rescue
One of the most memorable experiences came at Tierra Rapaz, a bird of prey rescue and research centre. Here, students had hands-on encounters with birds of prey, including holding a Harris hawk and feeding owl chicks such as the majestic eagle owl and the smaller tawny owl.
The trip forms part of Cowes Enterprise College’s Educate for Life curriculum in action, providing students with experiences beyond the classroom that enrich their learning and broaden their horizons.
Kitley: Our students engaged brilliantly with every experience
Rachel Kitley, Principal of Cowes Enterprise College, said,
“Cowes Enterprise College is proud to offer opportunities like our Spanish Exchange, which are invaluable for our students, allowing them to deepen their understanding of Spanish culture while developing confidence in their language skills.
“Our students engaged brilliantly with every experience, and we are incredibly proud of how they represented the academy.”
News shared by Kira on behalf of Cowes Enterprise College. Ed
