Learning in the Land of Fire and Ice.
In early 2026, our Sixth Form and Science students embarked on an unforgettable educational adventure to Iceland, immersing themselves in outdoor learning, cultural exploration and sustainable approaches to living. Across the trip, they worked in one of the country’s leading kindergartens, learning from Icelandic educators; explored waterfalls, glaciers and national parks; built a mud kitchen for local children; and even witnessed a spectacular display of the Northern Lights.
From snow walks and forest expeditions to geothermal wonders and eco‑village visits, the group embraced every challenge, formed new friendships and gained a deeper understanding of sustainability, geology and outdoor education. It was a transformative journey that blended learning, culture and once‑in‑a‑lifetime experiences.
Immersed in Icelandic Outdoor Education
Our Sixth Form and Science students began their Iceland adventure with a full dive into outdoor learning.
Their first stop was a local kindergarten, where they joined the children in creative snow play, building snow castles, sledging and making artwork inside the cosy forest hut. They also spent time speaking with Icelandic educators about sustainability, ecological teaching approaches and the importance of process‑based learning.
Before leaving, the group helped prepare the outdoor hut for the children’s lunch, a simple but meaningful part of daily life here. The day ended with a forest expedition, where students practiced mindfulness, climbed trees, explored the landscape and helped serve lunch outdoors.
A visit to the local swimming pool – a beloved Icelandic tradition – rounded off the evening. Even with an orange weather warning rolling in, spirits stayed high and everyone embraced the adventure.
Making a life-long impact
Our students spent the day supporting children in one of Iceland’s leading kindergartens, helping with lessons, outdoor play and daily routines. Their patience, kindness and enthusiasm made a real difference, shaping an experience that will stay with both the learners and the children long after the trip has ended.
Growing Through Connection
Alongside their classroom support, our students built genuine bonds with the children and staff, learning from Icelandic approaches to outdoor education and sustainability. These shared moments, from snow play to story time, helped them grow in confidence, empathy and teamwork.
Exploring Iceland’s Natural Wonders
After a morning of supporting the kindergarten, the group spent the rest of the day discovering some of Iceland’s most breath-taking landscapes. From the misty power of Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss to the hidden beauty of Gljúfrabúi, our students experienced the country’s waterfalls up close before travelling on to Gullfoss, Geysir and Þingvellir National Park.
The visit to Sólheimajökull glacier offered a striking look at Iceland’s geology in action, giving learners a deeper appreciation of the environment they’d been studying. It was a day filled with awe, teamwork and shared excitement as the group continued to bond and explore together.
Mud Kitchen Magic
Our students rolled up their sleeves and got creative, building a full mud kitchen for the kindergarten children to use in their outdoor play. From planning to construction, they worked as a team to bring the project to life – and the final result was fantastic!
As a reward for their hard work, the group visited Sólheimar, a self‑sustaining eco‑village known for its environmental values and community focused living. Even with unpredictable weather, our students continued to make the most of every moment. Their mud kitchen is now complete, and the children can’t wait to use it.
Northern Lights and Icelandic Wonders
In the final days of the trip, the group experienced something truly unforgettable: the Northern Lights dancing across the Icelandic sky!
They also visited the Lava Centre to learn about Iceland’s volcanic history and geology before heading to the famous black sand beach and the iconic plane wreck site. From natural wonders to cultural learning, the final stretch of the trip captured everything that makes Iceland extraordinary – and a once‑in‑a‑lifetime experience for every student involved.
Inspired? Start Your Sixth Form Journey
If experiences like this spark your curiosity, our Sixth Form pathways at Blackburn College open the door to learning that goes far beyond the classroom. From international trips and outdoor education to hands‑on science, cultural exploration and real‑world discovery, our students gain confidence, independence and unforgettable memories along the way.
If you’re ready to broaden your horizons, challenge yourself and take the next step in your future:
