From page to stage: St Cuthbert’s students bring Shakespeare to life in London trip
Shakespeare took centre stage for Year 12 Literature students from St Cuthbert’s Catholic High School, as they spent three packed days in London bringing their studies to life.
The group travelled to the capital for an immersive cultural trip, experiencing Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre up close, taking in a West End production, and exploring some of London’s most iconic landmarks along the way.
Students stepped far beyond the classroom to see literature play out in real life, and we’re delighted that they were able to embrace such a unique opportunity.
“Literature is far more than words on a page”
“We attended an A-Level Study Day at Shakespeare’s Globe to further our understanding of our Shakespeare text King Lear,” said Michael Willis, English Teacher and Literacy Coordinator at the school, which is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust. “This involved a tour, seminar, and acting workshop led by an actor. We also went to the West End to see Hadestown.
“Rather than use the transport, we walked to most places. We walked 32 miles in total across the trip, and that allowed us to see key sites like the South Bank, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, Trafalgar Square, St Paul’s Cathedral, the Tower of London, and Tower Bridge.
“The trip has become a regular event in the school calendar, and was taking place for the fifth time. It was linked to our study of Shakespeare’s King Lear, and gaining a better understanding of the geography of Shakespeare’s theatre land on Bankside. By visiting the West End, we were also able to compare how theatre has developed since Shakespeare.
“I think trips like this are crucial, rather than just important. Literature is not something that exists within a classroom, and literature is far more than words on a page. Shakespeare in particular is far more than just words – Shakespearean texts need to be experienced, performed, and understood as examples of early modern visual culture, in order for their impact to be felt to our students today.”
Chris Zarraga, Director of Schools North East, said: “Experiences like this are invaluable for our young people because they transform learning from something theoretical into something lived and memorable.
“Seeing Shakespeare performed in the setting it was written for, while exploring the history and culture of London, helps students develop confidence, curiosity, and a deeper appreciation of literature and the arts. Well done to all those involved.”