Auschwitz trip ‘moving’ experience

Oct 30 2008 by Debbie Spalding, West Lothian Courier

PUPILS from Whitburn Academy recently returned from a moving visit to Auschwitz in Poland.

Around 100 schools were chosen by the Holocaust Memorial Trust to take part in a one-day study tour, and Whitburn was selected.

History teacher Jim Atkinson, along with two pupils, went to Poland on a trip organised by the Holocaust Memorial Fund.

The aim of the trip was to enhance their understanding of the consequences of racism and intolerance.

Students will also be encouraged to lead assemblies in the weeks following on from their trip to spread the message.

Mr Atkinson said: “This was a fascinating trip, humbling and enlightening at the same time.

“There were around 200 senior pupils there from schools all over Scotland and their behaviour and demeanour was exemplary."