The 35 students from Marshland High School will be based a short distance from Barcelona at the Hotel Aquamarina in Santa Susanna, and will take part in basketball and hockey training sessions ahead of the sports fixtures, as well as enjoying the sights and attractions of the iconic Catalan capital.

Besides sporting activities, highlights will include visits to Barcelona Zoo and the Marineland and Waterworld water parks, a meal at a traditional tapas restaurant, and a post-match barbecue at the Hockey Club, along with shopping in the city’s famous Las Ramblas, and time to relax at the beach and pool.

“I am really looking forward to the basketball fixture,” said Dom Stannard, Head of Character and Culture at Marshland, and organiser of the trip since 2015.

“We are taking lots of our team players this year, so it will be great to see how we do against the local opposition. We also have several who have never played before, so it will be equally as good for them.”

“The hockey is always challenging, as the local teams are so impressive,” he continued. “But we get really well looked after at the club, and it has a really nice social feel, as we have a barbecue with them after the game.

“The two waterparks are always great fun, and a big hit with the students.”

Joining Mr Stannard and the students in Barcelona will be Assistant Head Dave Lucas, Deputy Head James Crawley, Pastoral Manager Sarah Hobbs, and Cover Supervisor Jasmine Moore.

The Spanish trip has been taking place for over 20 years, and this year follows hot on the heels of a sports tour to Florida – a first for the school.

“We are currently running a Spain Club to allow students to get to know each other and the staff better, as well as get some last-minute training in basketball and hockey,” added Mr Stannard.

“It’s brilliant that we are able to offer another opportunity so close to the recent and very successful Florida trip.

“The training sessions will give students a new experience with coaches that have different ideas – hopefully they will all come back with a few points to improve their game in both sports.

“These trips are what students will remember for a long time and it gives them opportunities to develop their character and, most importantly, have fun.”