Questions about your trip to Berlin? Feel free to send me your questions, and I’ll be happy to assist you—it’s completely non-binding.
Arranging a guided tour to Berlin with a school group or study trip requires careful planning to ensure that everyone gets the most out of the experience. Here are some considerations to keep in mind as a teacher as well as a tour guide before you set off:
- The age group of the students: It can be crucial to consider the age group of the students when planning the trip. Younger students typically have less patience for listening and prefer more interactive and physical activities, such as cycling or walking, rather than longer historical narratives. Tailor the tour to their needs and interests.
- Gender differences in the group: Boy and girl groups may have different preferences and interests. It is important to consider themes and activities that will appeal to both genders and also to take into account how long the group can maintain focus. Variation in activities can help keep everyone engaged.
- Students’ prior knowledge and interests: Investigate what the students have seen and learned before the trip. Should the tour provide an overview of the city, or are there specific historical or cultural topics that the students are particularly interested in exploring? Perhaps the students even have a project for which they would like inspiration or information.
- Confirm an native English speaking guide in Berlin: In my experience, after many guided tours with International school groups and students of various age groups it is by far the best to have a guide who speaks the language that the children are most comfortable with. Maybe you are coming to Germany to expose the children to German, but with a 3h guided tour this you have to be sure that the children are at the right level of German language skill before you go with such an option.
- Assessment of students’ cycling skills: If you are considering a guided cycling tour, it is important to assess the students’ experiences and comfort with cycling. Berlin is great to see by bike, but conditions on the bike paths could certainly be better in some places. Make sure that everyone feels safe on a bike, and consider alternatives like tandem bikes for those who feel insecure. If you have a guide, always ask for a route that prioritizes safety and avoids busy areas as much as possible. A walk combined with the use of public transport can also be a nice option for exploring the city.
- Preparation and basic needs: Remember to remind students about basic needs before departure on the trip. Ensure that they have visited the restroom, are using sunscreen, and are bringing appropriate clothing for the weather, especially in spring and autumn when the weather can be unpredictable. Bring water and a snack to ensure that the students remain hydrated and energized during the trip. Being well-prepared will help maximize the benefits of the guided tour, as the students won’t be distracted by basic needs. A tour lasting 2.5 to 3 hours is recommended if you want an overview, while topics like the Berlin Wall can be covered in about 2 hours. Longer tours should preferably be planned with longer breaks included.
By considering the points above, you can ensure a more pleasant and enriching experience for your students during your guided tour in Berlin.
If you need assistance for your trip to Berlin, whether as a school or for other group tours, don’t hesitate to write to me for non-binding advice and guidance regarding your next trip to Berlin.
