Creative students studying A Level Film Studies, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Media Studies, Photography and Textiles at Xaverian College recently jetted off across the Atlantic Ocean on their annual trip to New York.
After landing at John F. Kennedy International Airport, they set off to midtown Manhattan to watch the sunset as the iconic skyline emerged on the horizon, before heading to Times Square to immerse themselves in the bright lights and hustle and bustle of the city.
Throughout the week, students got to experience some of the very best art, film and media the ‘city that never sleeps’ has to offer, including, a visit to Central Park to find and recreate famous movie scenes, guided tours of the Museum of Modern Art and the New Museum, workshops at the New York Film Academy and much more, as well as spending time seeing the city’s iconic sights.
Students returned to College talking about their unforgettable experiences with many commenting on the enriching activities they got to share with their friends.
Jimmy Butler, former pupil of The Barlow RC High School, said: “I will never forget the trip to New York – it was a dream come true to visit and I got to experience it with the best people!”
Nicole Sebastian, who also completed her GCSEs at The Barlow RC High School before progressing to Xaverian, added: “It was such an amazing experience! My favourite part was seeing the Book of Mormon, it was absolutely hilarious!”
Zach Andrew, former Priestnall School pupil, commented: “I have never been so happy to wake up at 7am... what an unforgettable trip! I got to broaden my passion for film in the most important city for cinema and art – how amazing!”
Daryna Siardziuk, former Altrincham College pupil, said: “There was a great balance between free time and group activities. Our teachers had planned it so we got the most out of our time there and I enjoyed every moment. It is an experience I will certainly never forget!”
Jack Crennell, former All Hallows RC High School pupil, summed up the trip by saying: “The New York trip was the greatest week of my life, I’d love to do it all over again!”
The trip was led by Phil Drinkwater, Film Studies Curriculum Leader and Dani Morrison, Fine Art Curriculum Leader, with Qainaat Irfan, Art Technician, dutifully jumping aboard for an exciting few days guiding thirty students around the five boroughs. Phil said: "Our students were an absolute credit to the College! They have packed more into five days than most people do in a whole year, and we truly feel the experience has opened their eyes to the possibilities and opportunities available in New York for the creative industries. Here’s to the next visit!"
The creative industries are set to soar across advanced and developing economies worldwide during the next decade, which will provide numerous exciting career opportunities, and studying a creative subject at Xaverian could be the inspiration students need to launch their careers in the industry.
As one of the largest providers of post-16 education in the region, Xaverian College offers a range of creative subjects, including A Levels in Film Studies, Fine Art, Graphic Communication, Media Studies, Photography and Textiles. To find out more, visit xaverian.ac.uk – Learning Without Limits!