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3 exciting school trip excursions celebrated at the annual THEA Awards

16/04/2024

Travel Inspiration

At Equity, our excursions are hand-picked for their suitability for our school groups. Whether it’s exceptional educational opportunities, chances for students to develop life skills, or simply unparalleled entertainment, all our school trip activities have been chosen with thoughtful consideration so we can ensure we offer only the best for your students.

So, imagine our excitement to learn that a handful of our excursions have been recognised at the 30th Annual THEA Awards, a prestigious event celebrating excellence in the creation of compelling places and experiences. Dubbed 'the Oscars of the themed entertainment industry', the Themed Entertainment Association (TEA) holds these awards each year to honour outstanding achievements in themed entertainment and experience design. These awards are held in high regard within both the hospitality and events industries, and serve as a beacon for innovative and educational excursions.

In this blog, we’ll delve into a few of the award winners, and explore why they make an excellent addition to any school trip. Read on for some school trip inspiration, featuring some of the best activities in the business.

Best Attraction: Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT, USA

Recipient of the prestigious THEA Award for Best Attraction for its groundbreaking innovation in themed entertainment, EPCOT's Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind offers school groups an out-of-this-world adventure as it transports riders through space and time while immersing them in the Marvel Universe.

Beyond the adrenaline rush, this attraction offers educational opportunities in physics, astronomy, and the exploration of outer space. As students rocket through the cosmos alongside their favourite superheroes, they'll be inspired to imagine the possibilities of space travel and scientific discovery.

Shoot into space on the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT with a STEM or enrichment trip to Florida.

Best Live Show: Le Mime et L’Étoile at Puy du Fou, France

Prepare to be transported back in time to the enchanting world of black and white cinema at Puy du Fou's mime show Le Mime et L’Étoile, recipient of the THEA Award for Best Live Show. This captivating performance overcomes numerous challenges to offer a truly unforgettable show that adheres to the codes of black and white cinema without the aid of 3D glasses or augmented reality devices.

Stepping into the world of Le Mime et L’Étoile, students are not only treated to a visual feast but also presented with invaluable educational opportunities, from exploring the traditional French art of mime and non-verbal communication to delving into the intricacies of black and white cinema. As they witness this incredible performance unfold before their eyes, students will gain insights into the creative process, problem-solving, and the collaborative effort required to bring such a grand production to life.

Experience the magic of Le Mime et L’Etoile for yourself, with a French language or history trip to Puy du Fou.

Best Visitor Experience Re-envisioned, Limited Budget: Titanic Belfast, Ireland

Step back in time with the immersive experience of Titanic Belfast, which has won its THEA Award for its renewed exploration of the RMS Titanic story. Here, students have the opportunity to explore a plethora of exhibits, the museum’s central the Ship of Dreams galler presenting a huge, rotating 7.6-metre scale model of the Titanic herself.

Beyond its impressive visual spectacle, Titanic Belfast offers a profound educational experience, delving into the engineering marvels and human stories behind the Titanic's ill-fated voyage. Through interactive exhibits and immersive displays, visitors gain insight into the lives of those aboard the ship and the events that led to its tragic demise. From the opulent grandeur of the first-class cabins to the stark realities faced by its passengers, Titanic Belfast offers a poignant reminder of the human cost of hubris and heroism on the high seas.

Delve into the tragic tale of the Titanic and more with a tailored trip to Belfast. Call our travel experts today on 01273 648248.

Supercharge your next school trip with award-winning excursions

The THEA Award-winning excursions highlighted above represent just a glimpse of the transformative educational experiences available to students today. From the French traditional art of mime and the depths of maritime history, to drone simulations and cosmic adventures, these outings offer far more than entertainment – they provide invaluable opportunities among student groups for learning, exploration, and personal growth.

At Equity, our travel experts can recommend just the excursion to help your group achieve their learning objectives, enriching the classroom experience and broadening the horizons of your students.