By combining curriculum learning with one of the world’s most iconic theme parks, the trip delivered a powerful lesson – that maths is all around us, and it’s fascinating!
This case study explores why the subject-specific seminars were impactful for students, the benefits of experiencing Disneyland® Paris, and how Rachel was supported throughout the process.
Why choose a maths school trip to Disneyland® Paris?
Rachel works with students who often don’t leave their local area and struggle to see the value of maths beyond the classroom.
“I just wanted them to experience maths in a different way, a fun way, and in the real world.”
Theme parks provided the perfect context. Roller coasters, ride design, crowd flow, physics, budgeting and logistics all rely on mathematical thinking, and Disneyland® Paris is a place students already love.
One student in particular aspires to design roller coasters in the future. For him, the opportunity to see the maths behind these world-famous rides was invaluable.
Seeing the maths behind the magic
During the Study Experiences maths seminar, students explored how mathematical concepts are used in real-world theme park design.
A highlight was learning about Disney’s Ratatouille ride, where scale, perspective and spatial reasoning are used to make guests feel as though they’ve shrunk to the size of a rat.
“They didn’t actually realise how much work goes on behind the scenes… it made them think differently, be more creative, and see how maths fits into it all.”
For students who struggle to engage in traditional lessons, seeing professionals explain these ideas in a real setting made a huge difference.
Cross-curricular learning beyond maths
Although the group attended the maths-focused seminar, students were surprised by how much Physics and Business Studies knowledge also came into play.
Because some students study these subjects at GCSE, they were able to contribute confidently, reinforcing the idea that learning crosses subject boundaries more than you may realise in real life.
“It was really positive, seeing the cross-curricular links and how different subjects connect.”
First-time trip planning made easy
This was Rachel’s first ever residential trip, and initially it felt daunting. However, the support from Study Experiences made the process straightforward and stress-free.
“It felt like a lot of work at first, but the company made it super easy. Any question I had was answered. Nothing was ever too big.”
From early planning to operational support, Rachel said that she felt confident and supported every step of the way.
Accessible, engaging and inspiring seminar experiences
The maths seminar was carefully pitched to suit a wide range of abilities.
“It was pitched right in the middle, it stretched some students but also allowed access for those with lower confidence.”
Crucially, students learned that you don’t need to be a top-set mathematician to use Maths in a career, or even simply everyday life. Even basic skills have useful applications for jobs in engineering, design, and creative industries.
Creating memories (and keeping track of students!)
A small but memorable part of the trip? Making and wearing custom hoodies for the trip!
Students loved them, as they created a sense of belonging and acted as a souvenir of the experience. While blue wasn’t the easiest colour to spot in Disney crowds, Rachel already has plans to go brighter next time!
“It makes you feel part of a group, part of a memory.”
Lasting impact back in the classroom
Although the group didn’t do much pre-trip preparation, Rachel is already thinking about how to build on the experience in future years, linking classroom topics to what students saw and heard in the parks.
Most importantly, the trip helped students understand that Maths isn’t just something you learn for exams, it’s a tool used in real careers, industries, and real places they care about.
Benefits of our educational seminars at Disneyland® Paris:
✔ Real-world application of maths
✔ High student engagement
✔ Career inspiration in STEM fields
✔ Excellent support for teachers
✔ A memorable, confidence-boosting experience
Thinking about a maths or STEM school trip to Disneyland® Paris?
Rachel’s experience shows how powerful learning can be when students are taken beyond the classroom. A Study Experiences trip to Disneyland® Paris doesn’t just reinforce curriculum content, it changes how students feel about learning itself.
Plan your education seminar with Study Experiences
There is so much to be gained through attending educational seminars at Disneyland® Paris. From hearing from expert speakers and understanding of real-world applications of your chosen subjects in a memorable and immersive environment, to valuable student bonding time and creating unforgettable lifelong memories. Get in touch today for a quote on your next seminar school trip!
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