THE RON CLARK ACADEMY TRAVELS to LONDON and PARIS

The biggest city in Britain made a huge impact on the students of the Ron Clark Academy, serving as the sixth grade class’s first international trip of the school year.  Students appreciated the blend of tradition and innovation that characterizes London, with its ornate buildings in the West End and the history that adorns Westminster Abbey. London’s museums showcase some of the world’s greatest collections, and students toured the Tower of London, British Museum, and the National Portrait Gallery.

The National Portrait Gallery houses more than 1,000 portraits highlighting men and women who were instrumental in shaping British history.  The galleries featured works from the early Tudor years (1485-1603) to contemporary portraits (1990 – present), and students identified various pieces of art of famous monarchs and icons including Queen Elizabeth I, King Charles I and Queen Victoria.

Later, students had a chance to see the West End’s most successful new musical, Wicked, at the Apollo Theatre. The play is based on the novel by Gregory Maguire that “re-imagined” the characters of The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, which was created by L. Frank Baum.  Wicked tells the untold story of the friendship between the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch. 

“This is just amazing,” said NaTasha Griffin with tears in her eyes, feeling every moment of the performance.  She added, “I love this play!” 

"Defying Gravity" was more than just the show tune during Wicked; students were able to spread their wings and show how they could fly during a surprise visit to participate in indoor skydiving. 

After a few days in London, students had an opportunity to travel by train to Paris, the City of Light.   They visited the Palace of Versailles to see the famous Hall of Mirrors, Grand Apartments of the King and Queen, and the gardens.

Students also toured the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower.  For Jibril Sadiq the trip symbolized meeting challenges. “I faced my fear of heights,” said Sadiq with a smile on his face while walking down the steps of the Eiffel Tower.

It was clear to see after visiting Paris students became enchanted by the beauty and sophistication of the city.  For the sixth grade class of RCA, the trip to London and Paris was an opportunity to fall in love with the charm of the cities while allowing the culture to touch their hearts.