If you're teaching students about the US and want them to gain a deeper understanding of the American dream, why not head to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty on school trips to New York?
It's been over 100 years since immigrants first came through the Golden Doors of Ellis Island in search of a better life and opportunities for themselves and their families, with many of these intrepid travellers going on to achieve great recognition in sports, government, medicine, business and entertainment.
As such, booking an educational tour with us is sure to be both fun and a great learning experience for your pupils.
Between 1892 and 1954, more than 12 million immigrants came to the country through Ellis Island - known as the Gateway to America.
In 1965, Ellis Island was declared part of the Statue of Liberty National Monument by president Lyndon Johnson and in 1984, it underwent a major refurbishment. The Main Building was later reopened to the public in 1990 as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, which receives nearly two million visitors each year.
Highlights of the museum include self-guided exhibitions depicting the island's role in the history of immigration, with photographs, artefacts, oral histories and interactive displays available to peruse.
Students may also like to watch the documentary Island of Hope, Island of Tears and sit through a play at the Ellis Island Living Theater.
The Statue of Liberty - which celebrated its 100th birthday in 1986 - was presented to the US by the people of France in recognition of the friendship between the two nations fostered during the American Revolution. It has come to increasingly symbolise democracy and freedom over the years, as well as this international relationship.
When planning your trip, bear in mind that the only way to reach Liberty Island is to use the Statue of Liberty-Ellis Island ferry system, as private vessels are not allowed to dock at either of the islands.
While on Liberty Island, take your students to the various exhibits, which tell the story of the statue through prints, videos, objects and photographs. There is also a Torch Exhibit, which includes the original torch from 1886.
Contact us today for a quote on your next school trip to New York!
