HNC/D Public Services learners embark on trip to Battlefields
Over the Easter break, learners studying the HNC/D Public Services course at NSCG Newcastle College had the incredible opportunity to travel to Ypres, Belgium and Dunkirk, France to visit a number of historic war sites.
During the thought-provoking trip, the group visited Menin Gate, where they attended the Last Post ceremony and laid two wreaths on behalf of the College and Royal British Legion.
Also on the busy itinerary was a visit to the Commonwealth cemeteries and a German cemetery to pay respects to those who lost their lives in WWI and WWII. As well as a visit to the In Flanders Fields and Hill 62 Museums where students explored the trenches left from the war.
To conclude, the group visited the evacuation beaches of Dunkirk to view the WWII wreckage and a British memorial and cemetery.
Talking about the experience, HND learner Dan Smith said; "The Belgium trip was an amazing opportunity. It allowed me to experience new cultures and how they pay respect to the fallen and what they consider freedom. I am very thankful that I got the opportunity to go, as it was my first trip abroad, it showed me, life can be continued somewhere different but familiar."
Blain Fletcher also a HND student added, "Personally I particularly liked visiting the Hill 62 Museum, for the different images that could be seen of what soldiers went through during WW1 in the trenches, and looking at how a trench would have looked like in the war."
Tamzin Davies who is studying the HNC Public Services course commented; "I really enjoyed the part of the trip to Belgium when we had the tour guide on the bus and we were driving through the city of Dunkirk and having all the war sites explained to us. I also enjoyed the In Flanders Fields Museum.
A really emotive trip for everyone which we hope has inspired learners wanting to pursue a career in the public services.
