The next morning we were up at the crack of dawn for an Italian breakfast of croissants, cheese and ham. This proved to be a contrast to the marmite toast many of us were accustomed to. We then set out to visit Florence Cathedral and climb the 463 steps up to the top of the dome. We arrived at the top unable to breathe but with very toned calf muscles. The view from the top can only described as absolutely amazing. We were able to see across the whole of Florence and Mrs Hadley was able to point out several of the very famous sights. Many pictures were taken before we began our long descent back down. The rest of the day was spent looking around art galleries and cathedrals which helped bring our art history lessons to life. The day ended with a much needed siesta before we headed out for supper in a Brazilian club and to be entertained by a group of dancers.

The next day brought a slightly later wake up call and a great deal of excitement. Tonight was the night we were going to Space Electronics, the infamous student nightclub. However we had a busy day ahead of us before we could even consider the prospect of good looking Italians. The day was spent looking around the various churches and museums. Not to mention resolving the various rivalries within the group. On our departure Mrs Hadley had sorted us into groups of four and named each after a prominent family in Florence during the 15th century. The groups became heavily competitive as the holiday progressed with each claiming their landmarks and ancestors homes the best. It can be said without a doubt however that the Pazzi Chapel certainly outshone them all! Were the Pazzi family thus victorious? Sadly after murdering a member of the Medici family they had been hounded out of Florence. We were not that competitive!

Sunday arrived and by this time everyone was feeling the effects of the previous night’s exertions, but luckily we had a relatively quiet day, attending Mass in Florence Cathedral, a visit to Michelangelo’s house and then a long stroll up to San Miniato al Monte on the outskirts of Florence and a long lunch.  Market shopping, seeing more wonderful art works - especially the wonderful statue of David - took place on the remaining days and then it was back home for the rest of half term.

Overall we had an amazing trip, we learnt a lot and we loved being able to spot all the paintings, buildings and sculptures that we had been studying in class. Thank you Mrs Hadley!