The trip began with a visit to Pompeii, where Mrs Cole, whose teaching remit includes Classics, re-told the story of the catastrophic eruption of Vesuvius in 29AD, as the children gazed in fascination at casts of the bodies left in its wake.

Mr Magson, Head of Art, spoke about the amazing frescoes which survive, and described the painstaking process which went into their creation. Everyone was left in awe at their beauty and sophistication.

The group took a boat trip along the glistening Mediterranean to Positano and Amalfi, the sophisticated and beautiful coastal resorts whose steep, narrow streets boast histories to match their dramatic setting.

Herculaneum came next, with its amazing mosaics and intact remains of building features. The party also trekked to the top of Vesuvius, peering down into its still-smoking crater. And they enjoyed spectacular views over the Bay of Naples.

Of course, the trip also took in the delights of Italian cooking, and everyone took very seriously their responsibility to sample authentic pizza, pasta, salami, mozzarella – and lots of delicious ice-cream. A pizza-making session involved mixing and kneading pizza dough before piling on delicious toppings under expert supervision. Eating their own creations made them taste even better!

The shops of Sorrento were explored, and children relished their trips to the supermarket to check out the snacks and sweets on offer. They also enjoyed relaxing in and around the hotel pool, sharing the delight of being in a warm and sunny climate with good friends after a busy day.