North Park Students Travel to Europe for Extraordinary History Lesson

Wednesday, Jun 04, 2025
North Park Collegiate and Vocational School student visit a monument at Vimy Ridge in France


Above:
North Park students visit the Vimy Ridge monument.

North Park Collegiate and Vocational School recently welcomed back nearly 80 students and staff-member chaperones who travelled to Europe to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Netherlands and VE Day.

“We have studied the history of the war and the hardships suffered by the Canadian soldiers, but nothing can compare to the feeling of actually being there,” said Andrew Le, a Grade 11 student who made the trek. “Being there helped me grasp the loss and also realize what was accomplished by our country. It made me feel proud and thankful.”

The emotional trip included participation in a significant commemoration event at the Bergen Op Zoom cemetery in the Netherlands, where 960 Canadian soldiers were laid to rest. Students were deeply moved by the warm reception from Dutch citizens, who displayed signs reading “Forever Grateful” and waved Canadian flags in a powerful display of gratitude. The itinerary also included visits to historical sites, such as the Vimy Ridge Monument and the trenches of Passchendaele.

"Visting Vimy Ridge was an experience I'll never forget,” said Abby Robinson, a Grade 12 student. “Being able to see these places in person and learn the history where it happened made everything so much more real and meaningful.”

Educators who accompanied learners showcased the school's commitment to out-of-classroom experiences that bring learning to life and expressed pride in students’ respectful representation of their country and school. 

“I will never forget this experience – there were so many moments as a teacher and a Canadian that I was overwhelmed with pride,” said educator Kathryn Cottrill, who said approaching the Vimy Ridge monument was particularly moving. “To think that I had taught my students about this for more than 25 years, and now here I was with these amazing young people… it was very emotional for me.”

As learners returned home, they brought with them not only memories of their journey but a deeper understanding and appreciation for the sacrifices made by those who came before them—a history lesson that will resonate for a lifetime.

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