Fifty students at a Hornchurch school made the huge trip to Germany and Poland during last week’s half term in memory of the 70th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz.

The students from Sanders School in Suttons Lane travelled hundreds of miles overnight by bus for the emotional journey.

The organiser of the trip, humanities teacher Dan London, said: “The places we visited and the stories we heard about were often very emotional and the students really responded well.

“They all lit candles at Birkenau to reflect on what they had learnt and experienced during the week.

“The whole experience was unique and I am sure all those that attended, both staff and students, will never forget this remarkable experience.”

The students saw Munich and Berlin in Germany before moving on to Kazimerz in Poland and finishing at concentration camps.