Youngsters from a Weymouth school got a taste of the land of the free when they headed on an international trip.

More than 40 pupils from Wey Valley School took in the sights and sounds of New York, Washington and Philadelphia during the Easter holidays as part of an eight day educational tour.

Their time in the Big Apple was jam-packed with sightseeing visiting Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty, the National September 11 Memorial, Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Times Square and New York's most stylish street, Fifth Avenue.

Jack Tewkesbury, a student in Year 10 said: "It was my first visit to New York and the trip was fantastic. We visited so many famous and historical sites. Fifth Avenue was amazing and we watched the Spring Parade."

Jack added he would thoroughly recommend the trip to his peers.

Amber Pendlebury, also in Year 10 said: "My highlight was the Empire State Building – the views were incredible. I would like to thank Miss Claridge and the staff who accompanied us on the trip – it was really well organised."

Whilst in the historical city of Washington DC, the group learned about the history of early America. Visits included The Lincoln Memorial, The Mall, Arlington, The White House, George Town and a variety of museums found at the Smithsonian.

Miss Claridge, Head of PE and trip organiser said: "This was another great school overseas trip and the students were an absolute pleasure and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. The New York and Washington trip takes place every two years and this was the sixth trip for Wey Valley. We are already looking at a possible trip in April 2020."