The Royal Hospital School (RHS) in Holbrook, Suffolk, is delighted to announce that it has been shortlisted for the 2025 ‘My Best School Trip’ Award, part of the School Travel Awards, in recognition of its exceptional music tour to Canada earlier this year.
The biennial international tour took place during the Easter holidays (5–16 April 2025) and saw 43 pupils from Year 8 to Year 13 travel across Montreal and Toronto, performing 14 concerts in iconic venues such as Marie-Reine-du-Monde Cathedral, St James’ Cathedral, and Saint Joseph’s Oratory, the largest church in Canada.
The experience, entirely self-organised by the school under its own tour operator licence, blended musical excellence with cultural exchange, character-building, and international collaboration. Pupils engaged with Canadian communities, performed for diverse audiences, and even reunited with RHS alumni in Toronto, leaving a lasting impression at every stop.
Brian Martineau, Assistant Head Co-Curricular & Teacher of Music at RHS, commented on the achievement, saying:
“Our aim was to create a transformational experience for every pupil, through performance, cultural immersion, and connection. To be recognised nationally for this is an honour and a reflection of the incredible effort our pupils gave to every aspect of the tour.”
The impact of the tour has been profound, both musically and personally. Performance standards have risen, new friendships have flourished, and confidence has soared, particularly among younger pupils. One standout moment included a joint Evensong with the choir of Royal St George’s College in Toronto, an event later acknowledged by His Majesty King Charles III in a letter of appreciation for the schools’ efforts in promoting choral music and shared royal heritage.
Inclusivity and affordability were key priorities. Through scholarships, advance planning, and innovative fundraising events such as the school’s ‘Excess Baggage’ concert, RHS ensured that no pupil was excluded due to financial barriers. The tour also represented a diverse cross-section of the school community, with pupils of multiple nationalities participating.
Pupil feedback speaks volumes. Year 12 pupil Genevieve Marshall described it as “a fantastic core memory,” while fellow participant Hebe McQuaker called it “an unforgettable opportunity to immerse ourselves in a vibrant new culture.” Martha Smith, Year 11, reflected: “There is nothing quite like a trip that balances the expression of school culture with the enrichment of another country.”
Headmaster at RHS, Irfan Latif, shared:
“This shortlisting is a testament to the value of experiential learning beyond the classroom. Our music tour to Canada exemplified the Royal Hospital School’s ethos, developing character, creativity and global awareness in our pupils. We are incredibly proud of everyone involved.”
The School Travel Awards Ceremony will take place on Friday 21st November 2025 at the Royal Lancaster Hotel, London, where the winner of the ‘My Best School Trip’ category will be announced. Two RHS representatives will attend the event on behalf of the school and the pupils.
