On 10 February 2023, pupils and teachers from Merchant Taylors’ Prep school in Moor Park, embarked on a three day school trip to visit Manchester City Football Club and their facilities. The early start did not dampen their “very excited” spirits, because for some, this was their first residential trip away from parents, let alone an opportunity to watch a live football game at the home of the reigning Premier League champions. The trip’s itinerary also included an opportunity for the boys to train on the world class facilities under the watchful eye of City coaches and for teachers to receive insights about their tactics and methods.

PE teacher Jack Denham led the trip, and he believed that the experiences the trip offered were “huge for the boys and they really appreciated it when they were there, seeing it in real life”. The boys were able to take a tour around the Etihad Stadium experiencing some of the inner sanctums of the club such as the home team dressing room, manager Pep Guardiola’s dugout seat, and the club shop where some boys purchased their first ever replica football kits. 

The boys squeezed in a trip to a nearby bowling alley as well as the National Football Museum in Manchester (including a photo opportunity with the Premier League trophy), before the grand finale of their visit to watch Manchester City entertain Aston Villa. They were treated to four goals as City won 3-1. Overall, this was a great trip and experience for the boys and teachers involved, and they are already planning their next sporting themed adventure!