At Rayburn Tours we’re proud of our strong international focus, working together with schools worldwide to seek new adventures, embrace new cultures and learn new skills. Our role is to support you as teachers to bring subjects and theories to life like never before.
Taking young people to some of the most exciting places on the planet provides them with the opportunity to witness first-hand what they’ve been learning in the classroom; experience the sights, sounds (and even smells) for themselves; inspire their passion for a subject and make sense of the world around them.
One such school we’ve had the pleasure of working with is the International School of Geneva in Switzerland. As the world’s first international school and the birthplace of the International Baccalaureate, this establishment continues to uphold its reputation for international diversity.
An important part of providing students with an international experience is the extra-curricular trips the school offers. These trips play a valuable role in the school’s dedication to ‘enriching student learning, encouraging creativity, broadening horizons and developing additional skills’.
Working with the school for over 10 years, we’ve supported them in organising trips for various departments, giving students and staff a window into the subjects they study in the classroom.
“We have used Rayburn for over ten years, and have increasingly been impressed with the service.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
“We have used Rayburn for over ten years, and have increasingly been impressed with the service.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
Each year, First World War history comes to life for students at the International School of Geneva as they journey to the battlefields of Ypres and the Somme. Walking through reconstructed trenches, standing on the ground men fought and died for and hearing accounts of those who experienced the ‘Great War’ brings home the importance of ‘inclusiveness, respect and inter-cultural understanding’ – key values that the school teaches its students.
“Excellent, informative, interesting. Students had an amazing experience.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
“Excellent, informative, interesting. Students had an amazing experience.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
A highlight for the young historians is always the visit to Talbot House in Poperinge. For most of the war, Poperinge was a colourful garrison town packed with British troops seeking relaxation in the Estaminets and brothels. In December 1915, recognising the need for alternative attractions, two army chaplains opened the Every Man’s Club. Philip ‘Tubby’ Clayton and Neville Talbot hoped that the troops would regard Talbot House as a ‘home from home’ where they could find peace and Christian fellowship.
Rank wasn’t recognised here and soldiers relaxed as equals in the library, reading room, garden and loft which was converted into a chapel. It’s estimated that during the war, 25,000 men worshipped here. Today, Talbot House may be a listed building, but it still serves as the spiritual HQ for TOC H – a worldwide movement that aims to bring together people of different races and beliefs.
“The best moment was Talbot House in Poperinge – students realising that even amidst the horrors of the war, humanity can be shown.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
“The best moment was Talbot House in Poperinge – students realising that even amidst the horrors of the war, humanity can be shown.”
Mr Andrew Coates, International School of Geneva, Battlefields
Discover how Rayburn Tours can help with your next international school trip.