How Travelbound keeps a three-city History trip calm and organised
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Taking 55 students across three countries might sound ambitious, but for James, a History teacher at Lift New Rickstones, it’s become one of the most established and rewarding trips in the school’s calendar.
Since 2008, more than 625 students have taken part in this multi-city journey through Berlin, Krakow and Prague, exploring key moments in European history while developing independence, cultural awareness and confidence beyond the classroom.
We spoke to James about why the trip has stood the test of time and how travelbound helps keep a complex itinerary calm, organised and focused on student learning.
The trip at a glance
Destinations
Berlin, Krakow and Prague
Year Group
Year 10 (occasionally Year 11)
Group Size
Up to 55 students and 5 staff
Curriculum Link
GCSE History, including the Germany module
Key Visits
- Auschwitz-Birkenau
- Topography of Terror
- Berlin walking tour
- Wieliczka Salt Mine
Students Taken So Far
625 students, rising to 680 next year
Why a three-city trip works
When James first began planning the trip, the focus was always Auschwitz-Birkenau.
However, rather than travelling directly to Poland, he chose to build a wider itinerary that included Berlin and Prague. This helped break up a long journey while providing additional opportunities for historical learning and cultural exploration.
Over time, the itinerary has evolved through small changes driven by student feedback and experience. Visits such as the Wieliczka Salt Mine, evening activities and cultural experiences have been added to enhance the overall educational value of the trip.
“I had forty-six deposits by eight o’clock the next morning.”
The result is an itinerary that balances curriculum learning with opportunities for students to experience new places, cultures and ways of life.
Planning ahead makes all the difference
For James, successful school trips start long before departure.
“The biggest advice I could give anyone is to plan meticulously, right down to the small details.”
Over the years, he has developed simple systems that make managing a large group easier. Students are divided into smaller groups, each allocated to a member of staff, and clear routines help keep everything organised throughout the trip.
By working closely with Travelbound and reviewing the itinerary well in advance, James is able to focus on preparing students rather than worrying about logistics.
Keeping a multi-city trip manageable
Travelling across three cities and more than 2,500 kilometres could easily feel overwhelming.
For James, the key is having support from a trusted travel partner.
“I’ve never found it complicated because travelbound organise the complications of it.”
From accommodation and transport to excursion bookings, Travelbound coordinates the practical elements of the journey, allowing staff to focus on supporting students and delivering a successful educational experience.
The coach-based itinerary also means the group stays together throughout the trip, making transitions between destinations straightforward and reducing the complexity often associated with multi-centre travel.
The educational value beyond the classroom
The trip supports GCSE History learning directly, particularly through visits linked to twentieth-century Germany and the rise of the Nazi regime.
However, James believes some of the most valuable outcomes go beyond the curriculum.
Many students are travelling abroad for the first time. Experiencing different cultures, trying new foods, navigating unfamiliar environments and developing greater independence all contribute to their personal development.
“It’s cultural capital, really.”
These experiences help students develop confidence and broaden their understanding of the world, creating learning opportunities that simply cannot be replicated in the classroom.
The visit that leaves a lasting impact
For many students, the visit to Auschwitz-Birkenau becomes the defining moment of the trip.
The experience encourages reflection, discussion and a deeper understanding of the human stories behind the history they study at school.
Supporting visits, such as the Topography of Terror in Berlin, provide valuable context and help students engage more fully with the topics explored throughout the itinerary.
Together, these experiences create meaningful connections between classroom learning and real-world history.
Building stronger staff teams
School trips don’t just benefit students.
James views every trip as an opportunity to develop staff confidence and strengthen relationships across the school.
By combining experienced and first-time trip leaders, the team is able to share knowledge, build skills and ensure the long-term sustainability of the programme.
It’s an approach that has helped the trip continue successfully for nearly two decades.
Five tips for running a multi-city school trip
1. Plan thoroughly
Good preparation makes everything easier once you’re on the road.
2. Create clear group systems
Simple routines help staff manage large groups confidently.
3. Mix experienced and new staff
Trips are excellent opportunities for professional development.
4. Focus on the students
Let your travel partner handle the logistics wherever possible.
5. Keep reviewing the itinerary
Small improvements each year can make a big difference over time.
Ready to start planning your own multi-city history trip?
Our team can help you create an itinerary tailored to your curriculum objectives, group size and learning goals.
Want more information on how to plan a successful trip?
Read our guide to plan your trip!
