From food chain to floating farm
Rotterdam in the Netherlands is a hub of technology, sustainability and pioneering solutions, making it the perfect destination for Science and Technology students. Through interactive visits, students will explore cutting-edge engineering projects, world-leading advances in sustainable living and forward-thinking solutions to real-world challenges.
Discover how data, innovation and technology are shaping the future of food security, space exploration and coastal protection, alongside historic engineering achievements. Our STEM school trips to Rotterdam connect classroom theory with real-world practice, while inspiring curiosity, problem-solving and future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
Trip Highlights
Kinderdijk
Explore this historic UNESCO World Heritage Site.
World Horti Centre
Experience the future of food production.
Keringhuis Storm Surge Barrier
Learn about the Delta Works and new phase of water management.
Noordwijk Space Expo
Discover the world behind space exploration.
Itinerary suggestion
1 Depart school in your coach
2 Channel Crossing to Calais
3 Travel to Rotterdam – journey time from Calais approx. 5 hours
4 Check in at your accommodation and evening meal
1 Breakfast
2 Visit the Euromast
3 Boat tour of the Harbour
4 Floating Farm guided tour
5 Evening meal
1 Breakfast
2 Keringhuis Storm Surge Barrier
3 Afternoon at Kinderdijk
4 Evening meal – Option to have dinner at Markthal Indoor Market
1 Breakfast
2 Noordwijk Space Expo
3 World Horti Centre or Tomatoworld
4 Evening meal – Option to have dinner on the Pancake Boat
1 Breakfast
2 Check out from accommodation
3 Gouda Cheese Experience or Syrup Waffle Factory visit
4 Travel to Calais
5 Channel crossing to Dover
6 Travel back to school
Recommended excursions
Gouda Cheese Experience
Discover the story behind the Netherlands’ world-famous cheese. Combining tradition, craftsmanship and interactive exhibits, this experience offers an insight into the history and production of Gouda cheese, making it an enjoyable visit for all ages.
Markthal Indoor Market
Located in the heart of Rotterdam, the Markthal is a lively indoor market filled with fresh produce, international food stalls and local Dutch specialities. Set beneath a striking horseshoe-shaped building, it’s a great place to sample different cuisines, soak up the atmosphere and admire the colourful artwork that covers the market’s impressive ceiling.
Euromast
Discover the city with breathtaking views from the top of the Euromast. The Rise of Rotterdam is the new immersive experience on the ground floor and is part of Colourful Rotterdam; here, you quite literally step into the story of the city. In two immersive rooms, you’ll experience how Rotterdam became what it is today: from water and mud to a colourful metropolis.
Harbour Boat Tour
Experience Rotterdam at its most authentic: raw, robust and full of industrial charm on a harbour tour. The port is the largest in Europe, and a place of constant growth and innovation. It is the beating heart of the region, full of life and movement. Step aboard and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant atmosphere of the Port of Rotterdam – an experience that will open your eyes to the unparalleled energy of this unique city.
Kinderdijk
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinderdijk is symbolic of the Netherlands. The authentic windmills located here combine to tell a unique tale of water, land and workmanship. The Dutch have managed to hold back the water for more than 750 years. At Kinderdijk, you can learn how they have managed to live below sea level for centuries. You can take a boat trip and sail past huge windmills, meet the millers, and have a look around inside the windmills.
World Horti Centre
This visit offers a broad overview of Dutch horticulture: how a greenhouse works, which basic techniques are used, as well as how technology has changed the sector. It also provides an extensive focus on the World Horti Centre concept: its structure, purpose, and the collaboration between entrepreneurs, educational institutions, research organisations and government.
Stichting Tomatoworld
Discover the future of greenhouse farming at Tomatoworld. Visitors from all over the world can gain a unique insight into the high-tech innovations that are transforming this sector. Be inspired by pioneering technologies and complete your visit with a tour of the field lab. Tomatoworld offers an unparalleled experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Pancake Boat
Cruise along the Maas River and take in the stunning views of Rotterdam’s skyline while enjoying traditional Dutch pancakes. Relax in a casual atmosphere and enjoy unlimited freshly baked pancakes – choose from bacon, apple, or plain varieties.
Syrup Waffle Factory
Uncover the history of the Kamphuisen syrup waffle and see the baking process up close. Watch expert bakers in action, peer into the heart of the oven, and learn how these delicious waffles are still made today. To finish, enjoy a freshly baked syrup waffle straight from the oven.
De Kuip Stadium Tour
Explore one of Rotterdam’s most iconic landmarks and gain a behind-the-scenes insight into the world of professional football. Discover areas usually reserved for players and staff while learning about the history, traditions and atmosphere of one of the Netherlands’ most famous clubs. Whether you’re a football fan or simply curious, this tour offers a unique glimpse into life at the stadium.
Efteling World of Wonders
Explore fairy tales, folklore and adventure at Efteling, the Netherlands’ most enchanting theme park. This fantasy-themed attraction brings classic stories and legends to life through immersive rides, magical forests and spectacular shows. From roller coasters to the charming Fairytale Forest, Efteling offers something for everyone.
Floating Farm Tour
During the Future of Farming Tour, discover how innovation and sustainability are shaping the future of food production. Learn about the pioneering Floating Farm concept through a presentation before taking a guided tour of the floating farm itself. You’ll see sustainable farming practices in action and gain insight into new approaches to producing food in urban environments. Tip: Upgrade to the Plus Tour to round off the experience with a tasting of the dairy and cheese products.
Royal FloraHolland flower auction in Aalsmeer
Experience the energy of one of the world’s largest floral marketplaces at a flower auction. Watch traders bid, see millions of flowers from around 50 countries being traded each day, and take in the scale of the operation. Begin at the Visitor Centre before heading to the auction halls to see the action firsthand.
Noordwijk Space Expo
Through engaging exhibits and interactive displays, students will explore the technology, science and innovation that make space missions possible. From rockets and satellites to astronaut training and real-life space research, the experience provides an inspiring insight into how STEM subjects are shaping our understanding of the universe and the future of space travel.
Keringhuis Storm Surge Barrier
Discover how the Netherlands protects itself from the power of water with a guided visit to the Maeslantkering, one of the world’s largest moving storm surge barriers. Students will learn about the Delta Works, climate challenges and innovative water management solutions. Explore the engineering behind the barrier and gain a deeper understanding of how the Dutch are preparing for the impacts of climate change and rising sea levels.
Learning outcomes
KS3 curriculum links (Science and Design and Technology)
- Photosynthesis: see how plants make food in high-tech greenhouses at Tomatoworld and the World Horti Center.
- Earth and atmosphere: learn about the impact of carbon dioxide from human activity on the climate, and how the Netherlands prepares for rising sea levels at the Maeslantkering storm surge barrier.
- Energy resources: learn how windmills at Kinderdijk have helped keep the land dry for centuries.
- Space physics: see rockets, satellites and take part in astronaut training at Space Expo in Noorwijk.
- Cooking and nutrition: see the source and production of ingredients – from Gouda cheese and syrup waffles to urban and floating farms.
- Geography: understand hydrology, coasts and the use of natural resources in a country that has held back the sea for more than 750 years.
GCSE curriculum links (Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Combined Science)
- Photosynthesis: understand how temperature, light intensity and carbon dioxide limit the rate of photosynthesis, and how growers control them in commercial greenhouses.
- Food security: see sustainable food production in action at the Floating Farm and the Roof Farm.
- Biodiversity: understand the benefits and challenges of urban biodiversity at the Roof Farm.
- Climate change: learn about the effects of increased carbon dioxide and methane on climate, and see the engineering response to rising sea levels.
- Engineering: visit the Delta Works storm surge barrier and explore greenhouse technology to understand the impact of modern technologies today.
- Space physics: see satellites and take on space missions at Space Expo.
Typical accommodation
Stayokay Rotterdam
Why groups like it:
- Clean, comfortable hostel
- Located in the famous cube houses
- Staff experienced in hosting student groups of different ages and needs.
Facilities:
- Multi-bedded rooms for students with private facilities.
- Bed & Breakfast, half board and full board available.
- Free WiFi and on-site restaurant.
A&O Hostel Rotterdam City
Why groups like it:
- Excellent central location
- 24-hour reception and security
- Coach parking available
Facilities:
- Multi-bedded rooms for students with private facilities
- Flexible meal options available
- Free WiFi and on-site restaurant.
“
It was a smooth process, excellent value for money and you created the bespoke trip that I was looking for! Our students all loved the floating farm, eating pancakes and waffles, and the Royal Flower Auction. They loved being able to get into Rotterdam easily in the evening, walking or by tram.
Woking College
“
The professionalism and responsiveness of the Travelbound team gave staff complete confidence throughout, making the whole experience smooth and stress-free. We would highly recommend Travelbound to any school or group looking to organise an inspiring, well-managed, and unforgettable educational trip, we will certainly be booking with them again!
Baxter College
“
The agents at Travelbound were extremely attentive and responsive. They handled every detail of the trip perfectly and were flexible with any changes we needed to make along the way. The trip was brilliant and the girls very much enjoyed it.
Woldingham School
“
I have been using Travelbound for all my overseas trips since 2008. They always provide a very thorough and professional service.
New Rickstones Academy
Ready to start planning your school trip?
If you have any questions or would like to start planning your STEM school trip to Rotterdam, contact our educational specialists on 01273 244572 or request a quote below, tailored to your group and learning objectives.
