Getting involved in any kind of studying abroad is exciting for students of all ages and for the teachers too. Apart from being a positive learning experience, studying abroad helps young people experience the world from a different perspective and develop a sense of appreciation for foreign cultures and countries. Most subjects can be studied abroad in some context, and there is no doubt these learning experiences will be positive and productive.
A Moroccan Experience
Exotic Morocco is full of mystery, beauty and enchantment. Close enough to the UK to make this a very viable school trip destination, it is so completely different to the UK that students will feel they have been transported to another world. The ancient medina contrasts markedly with the modern city, although there are places of interest in both areas of the capital. Book with a reputable school travel company and the delights of Morocco are made even more accessible. You will be guaranteed comfortable accommodation in a hotel familiar with accommodating large groups of young people, and enjoy a trip tailored to your group.
The medina is home to the largest souk in Morocco, where potters rub shoulders with leather workers and the tiny winding streets house many other handicraft producers. As you make your way through the maze of streets, the Moroccan stereotypes come to life and fire-eaters and spice sellers give way to smiling shop keepers inviting you in for mint tea and a chat. Bargaining is the culture here and consequently the noise in this place is deafening. The souk in itself is an interesting place for students studying abroad to visit, as it raises questions about culture, sustainable living and other issues.
History students will have a wonderful time exploring the streets of Marrakesh where they can visit the oldest mosque in Morocco, the Kaoutoubia Mosque, with its influential design and stunning pattern detailing. A visit to the Museum of Morocco and the Dar SI Said Museum are wonderful places for art students to visit. Horse-drawn carriages are the best way to take a tour of the city and are great fun too. Students will be taken through the city and shown all of the highlights. They will be able to discuss the differences between the ancient city and the new, modern one and consider the way this city still strongly embraces its heritage while moving headlong into a modern future.
For those studying geography abroad, Morocco is the perfect destination. Dense cities contrast with rural landscapes, and the glitz and glamour of modern day Marrakesh appears to differ hugely from the agricultural subsistence way of life just outside the city.
The Berber communities that live in the Moroccan mountains have adapted to live in this environment and make an interesting area of study for students. If physical geography is more of a focus on your trip, then the High Atlas Mountains, their incredible formation and their potential for agricultural development should definitely be on the agenda. Covered in snow all winter, these mountains are a great place for summer field trips.
Marrakesh is bursting with opportunities for studying abroad and being so close to the UK, it is a great option.