Marshland High School students are preparing for a week-long sports trip to Florida.

Thirty pupils from Years 7 to 10 are heading to the USA where their itinerary includes sports games against American teams in basketball and football.

Pupils will also get the chance to be in attendance at professional sports matches.

On top of the sporting, the group will also enjoy visits to the Busch Gardens and Aquatica Water Park, shopping expeditions, and an evening at Disney Springs, complete with a meal at the Hard Rock Cafe.

Head of character and culture at Marshland, Dominic Stannard, said: “Trips like these are so important.

Eastern Daily Press: The pupils have new kit thanks to sponsors The pupils have new kit thanks to sponsors (Image: Marshland High School)

"It gives our students great opportunities and experiences that they will talk about for years to come.

“Students will benefit from increased confidence, social opportunities to make new friends, learn new skills and independence, but, most importantly, enjoy every minute.

“Florida is a trip of a lifetime for our students – to play and watch sport in the USA is going to be something they will never forget.”

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The young players’ new strips have been provided through the support of J & S Jetting Drainage Services Ltd and Barwell Transport, who have each sponsored football team kits, along with Quay Centre, sponsors of the new ‘Marshland Herons’ basketball kit.

Mr Stannard said: "We are incredibly grateful for the kind and generous sponsorship from the three companies to the value of over £1,200 to allow us to purchase two new football kits and a basketball kit."

The new kits are a significant upgrade, replacing the old ones that didn't feature the school's name or logo and a basketball kit too big for the younger students.

Eastern Daily Press: The pupils will be playing against American teams in football and basketball The pupils will be playing against American teams in football and basketball (Image: Marshland High School)

Mr Stannard said: "I can’t wait to see the students representing our school in Florida in the brand new kits.”

Pupil Macie Mapplesden said: “I am quite excited, mostly about going away with my friends. It’s going to be so much fun.

"I want to get better at the sports and build my confidence up.”

The trip takes place from April 3 to 10.