Class Trip to The Hague
Where Law and Peace Call Home
Four days, one city, and a wealth of impressions: From 6 to 9 October 2026, class RNT25/11 (second-year apprentices training to become legal administrative assistants) travelled to The Hague with Ms Helle. The journey began by train from Hamburg. The Hague is known internationally as a city of law and peace, home to the Dutch government and major international courts. These institutions were at the heart of the trip, complemented by art and, finally, a visit to the sea. The class spent plenty of time outdoors, and the atmosphere was great throughout. There was just one topic on which opinions differed: punctuality. Let’s just say it was interpreted in rather different ways.
Exploring the City Independently
At the start of the trip, the students were given the opportunity to discover The Hague on their own, in three groups and with the help of a digital, interactive tour. The route began at the Kneuterdijk tram stop and continued via Noordeinde, Gevangenpoort, Binnenhof and the Mauritshuis to Lange Voorhout. Along the way, the students tackled riddles, completed photo challenges and collected points. At the same time, they were already getting a feel for what makes this city so special: the groups found themselves in the heart of the government district, at the Binnenhof parliamentary complex and beside a medieval prison gate.
The Peace Palace: Resolving Disputes Without Fighting
At the Peace Palace, the students explored the history and development of international justice. The visitor centre and audio guide helped them understand the building and its purpose. The aim is to resolve disputes between states peacefully. The palace symbolises the idea that conflicts can be settled in court rather than through violence.
The International Criminal Court: Like an Official Appointment
Things became more serious here: first, the students had to show their identity cards and have their bags checked before they could enter. The visitor centre and audio guide explained how the International Criminal Court operates and why crimes against humanity must be prosecuted internationally. This brought the meaning of law and peace to life in a very tangible way.
The Oranjehotel: Stories That Stay With You
At the Oranjehotel, a former prison dating back to the German occupation during the Second World War, the students explored the exhibition. Personal accounts brought home the meaning of resistance and the loss of freedom, showing why peace and the rule of law can never be taken for granted.
Escher in the Palace: When Your Mind Does Somersaults
The Escher in the Palace Museum showcases the work of graphic artist M. C. Escher in the former winter palace of Queen Emma. The class learned about the artist and the history of the building, discovered optical illusions and geometric patterns, and even tried out some illusions themselves.
To Finish: A Day at the Beach in Scheveningen
The sea provided the perfect ending to the trip. After so many new impressions, there was time to relax, chat and watch the waves.
Over four days, the students discovered why The Hague is known as a city of law and peace. They combined politics, history and art with fun and a strong sense of community, spending much of their time outdoors and enjoying the trip in great spirits.
