Sixth Form Health and Social Care and Children's Play, Learning and Development students have recently returned from a cultural experiences visit to Newcastle.

Students first attended Mass at St Mary's Catholic Cathedral where they were welcomed in front of the whole congregation by Father Donnelly (who is the older brother of Dec from Ant and Dec!). They sang hymns and some lit candles as a symbol of hope and reflection. The group then went on to the Chinese New Year Parade to watch the tradition of feeding the dragon with lettuce to welcome in the good spirits, before venturing to The Fujiyama Teppan-Yaki Restaurant, pictured above, to experience Japanese cuisine, complete with dancing chefs and egg catching!

The next day, students met the Quakers of Newcastle and visited the First Church of Christ, Scientist, where students took part in educational talks and in-depth debates about the roles of men and women in each of the faiths and how religion can impact on a child's growth and development.

Miss Buchannan, who organised the trip said, "This was a fantastic experience and one which had a far greater impact than simply reading and discussing in the classroom. We met some wonderful people who spoke openly about their culture and faith and our students responded in such a mature and intelligent manner. The debate sessions were outstanding and they were a credit to both the department and to King James."