Politics & Debate in the USA

Day 1: Welcome to Washington!  

Your amazing politics school trip to America kicks off as soon as you land. You’ll be met at the airport by your enthusiastic Adventure Leaders, who’ll help you transfer to your accommodation. Once refreshed, meet them for a trip briefing to learn about your upcoming adventures – and how to stay safe in the USA.  

We couldn’t be starting our school tour anywhere more impressive. That’s right, we’re taking you to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue – better known as the White House! You’ll visit the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States before heading back to the hotel. Rest up – tomorrow is a busy day!  

Day 2: Learning About Lincoln 

After a hearty breakfast, you’re heading to the political center of America: the Supreme Court. Students will have a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get a lecture inside the Courtroom. These 30-minute programs are delivered by trained volunteer docents, and are designed to introduce students to the Court’s judicial functions, the building’s history, and the Courtroom’s architecture. Following this, you’ll also have a chance to explore the nearby exhibits.  

Next, students will take a tour of President Lincoln’s Cottage, placing his experiences within the larger context of the American Civil War. Students will take part in an award-winning program, ‘Lincoln’s Toughest Decisions: Debating Emancipation’. Here, students will learn about the varying perspectives of Lincoln’s contemporaries, allies, and adversaries. They’ll use touch-screen tablets to explore historical documents, recreating the heated discussions that Lincoln had over emancipation.  

A quick stop for lunch, and then we’re off to the National Mall. You’ll stop by the iconic Washington Memorial, a 170m high obelisk that was once the tallest building in the world. Carry on past the reflecting pools to the Lincoln Memorial, a beautiful column-flanked building that was the site of Martin Luther King Jr.’s ‘I Have a Dream’ speech. You’ll end your walk by the Martin Luther King Memorial, which is particularly beautiful during cherry-blossom season.  

For dinner, why not head to the same spot Obama does? Head to Ben’s Chili Bowl, which has been a staple of the D.C. community since it opened in 1958.  

Day 3: Congress & Capitol  

Today, we’re starting our learning adventure at the stunning Library of Congress. As the national library of America, it serves the US Congress and is the oldest federal cultural institution in the country. You’ll then head to the US Capitol, to learn more about successful democracy. Tour the buildings and surrounding grounds of Congress, the legislative branch of the US federal government.  

After lunch, we’re off to the National Archives Museum. As you explore this fascinating place, students will see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.  

We end the day with an informative talk from a pressure group. Students will learn more about what these pressure groups stand for, as well as gaining understanding on how they try to influence the government.  

Day 4: From the Pentagon to Philly 

We’re heading to our next base today, but before we get up-close-and-personal with the Department of Defense. Students will visit the Pentagon, where they’ll take a guided tour and see exhibits that highlight key moments in US military history.  

There’s time for lunch before we board a coach – because we’re bound for Philadelphia! Once we’ve arrived, we’ll have time to explore a little. As we head past the Philadelphia Art Museum, be sure to give us your best Rocky impression and run up the steps! You’ll break for dinner this evening on South Street. It’s a golden opportunity to try a Philly cheesesteak – a roll filled to the brim with steak, American cheese & fried onions.  

Day 5: Liberty & Independence 

Today you’ll be exploring Philadelphia, which has a rich history associated with the American Revolution. As you walk around, you’ll see many sites associated with the nation’s founding history at the Independence National Historical Park.  

Next, head to the building where the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence were signed – Independence Hall! You’ll also get a chance to visit an important American artefact that no longer resides in its original Independence Hall home. The Liberty Bell once tolled in the tower of the Hall, and while no longer there, it’s still an enduring symbol of American freedom.  

This afternoon, you’ll board a train with an impressive next destination: New York! Check into your accommodation, and take some time to rest up ahead of another packed day.  

Day 6: The Big Apple 

This morning, lace up your walking shoes. First off, we’re touring the United Nations headquarters. While there, students will watch an online briefing from a UN expert that covers everything from peacekeeping to the Sustainable Development Goals. You’ll also get a good overview of the history of the UN and the work the organization does.  

Once we’ve had lunch, you’ll visit the site of the World Trade Center. Students will see how New York has built back stronger following the 9/11 terror attacks, and will visit the One World Observatory on top of the Freedom Tower. Located next to One WTC (the tallest tower in the western hemisphere) is the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. When they visit, students will learn about the 1993 and 2001 attacks, and will have an opportunity to reflect at the memorial pools. 

After dinner, take students to the neon jungle that is Times Square. This bustling, billboard-lit center of Manhattan is aptly known as the ‘crossroads of the world’.  

Day 7: Boats & Trains 

Make sure your breakfast has gone down before you head to this morning’s high-octane adventure. Students will head out into New York Harbor in style – on a jetboat, aptly named The Beast. From the water, they’ll get amazing views of the Statue of Liberty.  

Bid New York goodbye this afternoon, as you catch a train to the final base on your politics school trip to America. You’ll arrive in Boston with plenty of time for dinner and an evening in your accommodation.  

Day 8: Historic Boston 

Find your sea legs after breakfast with a visit to the Boston Tea Party and Ships Museum. Set on a historic ship and featuring regular live re-enactments, it’s a firm favorite of students. They’ll get the chance to recreate the historic moment when Americans threw tea into Boston Harbor in protest of the taxes levied by the British.

You’ll then head to the Paul Revere House. Students will get a chance to explore the building, which was the colonial home of Founding Father Paul Revere during the American Revolution. Break for lunch, before you embark on a walking tour following the Freedom Trail. You’ll pass revolutionary landmarks as you go, stopping at the Boston Common, Park Street Church, and the Granary Burying Ground.  

After dinner, it’s time for one final, amazing experience, as we take students for a tour of the home of the Boston Red Sox – Fenway Park!  

Before you all retire, there’s time for a reflection session. This provides students with the opportunity to process their amazing experiences and digest the new ideas they’ve learned.  

Day 9: Farewell 

Sadly, today marks the end of your politics school trip to America. As you head home, we hope you’re taking a whole range of brilliant experiences with you.