Au sein de Collège Champittet, education extends far beyond the traditional classroom walls. The school's annual cultural trips represent a cornerstone of its philosophy as a Swiss institution open to the world, offering students from Grades 9 to 14 immersive learning experiences across Switzerland and Europe. These eagerly anticipated journeys are designed to strengthen peer bonds while exposing young minds to new cultural treasures, diverse places, and innovative ways of thinking. Recent destinations have included Swiss cities like Lucerne, Zurich, Basel, and Bellinzona, as well as international cultural hubs such as Bologna and Rome in Italy, Paris in France, and The Hague in the Netherlands. Emphasizing sustainable travel, most transportation is conducted overland by train, allowing students to appreciate the changing landscapes while minimizing their environmental footprint. This approach not only broadens their geographical understanding but also instills values of responsible global citizenship. The trips are meticulously planned to align with the school's commitment to holistic education, ensuring that every excursion contributes meaningfully to the students' academic and personal development. By stepping out of their daily routines and comfort zones, students gain a richer, more nuanced perspective of the world, fostering a lifelong curiosity and appreciation for different cultures and histories. These experiences are integral to the educational journey at Collège Champittet, where learning is viewed as a dynamic, interactive process that thrives on real-world engagement and discovery.
The cultural trips at Collège Champittet are carefully curated to provide a blend of educational enrichment and hands-on activities, ensuring students return with fresh energy and renewed inspiration. Each destination offers unique learning opportunities tailored to deepen students' understanding of the local culture. In Zurich, for instance, students explored the Lindt Home of Chocolate to learn about cocoa cultivation and chocolate production, followed by a visit to the FIFA Museum to delve into the history of football. In Basel, the itinerary included the world-renowned Vitra Campus and the Kunstmuseum, home to the oldest public art collection globally. Here, guided discussions on the role of fashion in art throughout the ages sparked creativity, leading students to develop their own multimedia art projects inspired by various quotes and themes. Beyond museum visits and city tours, students engaged in interactive experiences like cooking workshops, escape room challenges, and high ropes courses, which promoted teamwork, problem-solving, and personal resilience. Staff members noted the invaluable addition of expert guides, whose deep knowledge enriched the trips significantly. Reflecting on their journey to Bologna, 13th-grade International Baccalaureate students shared that it was a memorable experience that allowed them to discover the city's charms while forging stronger class bonds. These diverse activities not only make learning fun and engaging but also help students draw connections between academic concepts and real-world applications, reinforcing their desire to continue exploring the world around them.
