Argoed High School students 'amazing' New York trip

Almost 30 Argoed High School GCSE drama students and Year 11 students, who had been part of the cast in the school's Matilda production, spent five days and four nights in the city that never sleeps.

The Argoed High School students at the Statue of Liberty.

In a packed schedule, with an evening visit to Times Square on the first night of their arrival, the students took in as many famous sights of 'the Big Apple' as possible, including: a ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty, with free time to explore Brooklyn Bridge and the Financial District followed by a group visit to the 9/11 Memorial Museum; an evening ice skating in Central Park; Top of the Rock, the observatory on top of the Rockefeller Center that offers spectacular 360-degree views of the NYC skyline; a meal at Ellen's Stardust Diner; Broadway, and a theatre trip to see Moulin Rouge; and a walk along the High Line stopping at the renowned Chelsea Market for food.

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Ice skating in Central Park.

As well as visiting the sights, a small amount of free time gave students the chance to do some shopping which included exploring the infamous 5th Avenue.

It is the second time Stephanie Pritchard, head of expressive arts, has organised the popular New York trip, and she accompanied the students together with three other staff members.

She said: "We had an amazing time; seeing so many iconic sights and attractions has given the students a real taste of this vibrant city. I cannot commend the students enough for their impeccable and mature behaviour throughout the entire trip. It was a joy to take them and something we will all remember forever!"

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Liberty Island with the New York skyline in the background.

Lily Middleton, head girl, said: "It was an amazing experience! After lockdown it was a great way to have fun with friends and teachers. We saw a myriad of breath-taking landmarks; however, my favourite activity was watching the Jukebox Musical - Moulin Rouge; it was phenomenal!"

There are a number of exciting department trips coming up in June and July too. Students will be going to the immersive theatre production in Mold of The Great Gatsby, which will provide an opportunity to get dressed up in 20s costume and interact with the cast.

Year 9 and 10 students can look forward to a London overnight trip to see the musicals, Frozen and Hamilton, as well as a backstage tour of the National Theatre. Closer to home, students will also have the chance to experience outdoor theatre in the round on a trip to see A Midsummer Night's Dream in Chester's Grosvenor Park.