Beyond the Classroom: Educational tours and trips that inspire, engage, and empower

Hello, my name is Abby Smith, and I’m a director here at Esselle, with a particular

interest in education and dance.

As a mum of four — two of whom are competitive dancers — and with over ten years’ experience working in education, I’ve seen first-hand how powerful it can be when students are given the chance to learn in different environments. I honestly believe that the best learning happens beyond the classroom walls.

Students at Tower Bridge, London

At Esselle, we design educational tours and trips that give students, and their teachers, the opportunity to experience the world in ways textbooks simply can’t. Our trips are about exploring new places, meeting new people and discovering new perspectives, all through shared adventure.

I’ve seen how much students grow when they experience history in real life, walking the streets of Berlin or standing in Krakow’s historic squares, or when they see geography come alive in Iceland’s dramatic volcanic landscapes. These trips aren’t just educational; they build confidence, curiosity and memories that last a lifetime.

For schools that want to combine learning with sport, we can make that happen too. These tours are perfect for students who want to both learn and compete, whether that’s exploring the ancient history of Athens before facing local basketball teams, or studying art and architecture in Barcelona before stepping onto the pitch for an international fixture.

Next year, I’ll be joining my own children as chaperone on a dance tour to New York, where we’ll be taking in the city’s iconic sights, studios and theatres. It’s the perfect example of what I love about what we do — education, teamwork and adventure all wrapped into one unforgettable experience.

Every school is different, and so is every tour. That’s why we take the time to understand what each group wants to achieve. We work closely with teachers to create itineraries that complement the curriculum, whether that’s history, geography, languages or cultural studies. Along the way, students build teamwork, independence and a deeper sense of curiosity. Qualities that extend far beyond the trip itself.

Students outside the Duomo di Milano, Italy

Behind the scenes, we work with our trusted partners and experienced providers across Europe and beyond to take care of everything: flights, accommodation, activities, excursions, fixtures and tournaments. We know how precious teachers’ time is, so we make the process smooth from start to finish. All you need to do is focus on watching your students thrive.

So, if you’re thinking about your next school trip — or even just want to chat through what’s possible — our team would love to help. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience, a sporting adventure or the perfect blend of both, we’ll create something that fits your goals perfectly.

Call 01257 450991 (option 5 for General Enquiries) or email info@essellesports.com with your ideas and destination, and we’ll get started on crafting your unique experience.

At Esselle, we’re not just taking students away — we’re helping them go further!