Equity welcomes teachers and EVCs to our first-ever Normandy showcase

During the summer, Equity welcomed a brilliant group of teachers and educational visit coordinators (EVCs) to the historic heart of Normandy for an immersive showcase of one of our most popular school trip destinations.

The weekend gave staff from schools across the UK a first-hand experience of what an educational visit to Normandy can offer, from curriculum-linked excursions to high-quality accommodation and seamless travel logistics.

The trip also included formal EVC training, delivered in partnership with EVOLVE Advice, offering participants the chance to gain (or refresh) their EVC qualification while immersed in the realities of a school visit.

“EVOLVE Advice was delighted to provide EVC training as part of Equity’s Normandy Showcase visit,” said Helena Cresswell, our trainer for the weekend.

“This immersive training experience gave EVCs the opportunity to apply what they had learnt while immersed in a typical educational visit. It helps build confidence, decision-making skills and a chance to share good practice. A brilliant way to bring training to life.”

The group stayed at The People Caen, where they enjoyed a relaxed base, warm hospitality, and even a night of fantastic Neapolitan pizza (reported to be one of the best in the region). But the true focus of the trip? Exploring the rich learning opportunities that Normandy provides across history, culture, and language.

Highlights included visits to Bayeux’s famous tapestry, cathedral, and market; powerful moments at Pegasus Bridge, the British and American Cemeteries, and Omaha Beach; and more unusual stops like a traditional cider farm and the immersive 360° Cinema in Arromanches. For many, these excursions brought the history of WWII to life in ways that textbooks never could.

Genevieve, a teacher from a school in London, said: “It brought together the best of both worlds. The additional benefits of social awareness and enjoyment shouldn't be overlooked. Pegasus Bridge, in particular, really stayed with me — the museum guide brought the story to life.”

Feedback from other teachers on the trip was equally positive, with every attendee rating the overall experience a 5 out of 5. As one attendee put it: “If this was a sample of what to expect on an Equity excursion, then it was top class for a school adventure.”

Sharon Confue, Director of Sales & Marketing at Equity, added: “Our Normandy showcase with EvolveAdvice training proved how Equity leads the way in delivering safe, inspiring student travel — in true partnership with EVCs and party leaders."

We look forward to welcoming more teachers and EVCs (and your students!) to Normandy. To find out more about our school trips to Normandy, get in touch with our team on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.