Gardner-Webb College of Education Launches Pilot Study Abroad Program in London and Paris

Immersive Trip Connects Classroom Learning with International School Settings to Strengthen Global Awareness and Professional Practice

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University is launching a new College of Education study abroad experience in London and Paris, with the first group leaving soon. Assistant Professor Dr. Cherie Aldrich noted that the primary goal of the program is to broaden teacher candidates’ understanding of education through global perspectives on teaching, learning, leadership, and equity. The trip also includes non-education majors.

“By engaging directly with schools, educators, and cultural institutions abroad, students will observe how different countries structure their educational systems, support diverse learners, and approach curriculum and instruction,” Aldrich explained. “Ultimately, the experience supports the College of Education’s commitment to preparing educators who are globally informed, culturally responsive, and equipped to teach in increasingly diverse learning environments.”

Junior history education major Allie Johnson, of Bakersville, N.C., expressed her excitement about the international program. She has dreamed of visiting Paris and London since childhood, and the chance to study in these cities and connect their rich culture and history to her future career makes the experience especially meaningful to her.

A key part of the itinerary is a school‑based learning placement at Gidea Park Primary School in London, where students will observe classrooms and take part in professional discussions about teaching strategies and student support. “This opportunity benefits students by helping them develop cultural competence, global awareness, and reflective teaching practices,” Aldrich noted. “Exposure to international classrooms and cultural contexts encourages students to think critically about how educational policies, community values, and cultural traditions shape schooling.”

Alani Keiger, a senior nursing student from Newton, N.C., is grateful to participate. “My expectation going on this trip to London and Paris is to learn more about the culture in both countries,” she said. “We have the opportunity to learn more about the school systems, and I am excited to see how they compare to the schools in America.”

Midway through the program, the group will travel to Paris for continued study of education in a global context. Students will receive an introduction to French culture and the French education system and take part in educational and cultural site visits, including museums and civic spaces. These activities support discussions on curriculum, identity, language, and national perspectives on schooling.

Renva Barthell, of Concord, N.C., who graduated this past summer from the educational leadership program, is enthusiastic about exploring opportunities outside online instruction and the traditional brick‑and‑mortar classroom. “Through the CEPA Study Abroad program, I anticipate engaging in multiple learning experiences focused on comparing and contrasting educational systems in the United States with those in the United Kingdom and France,” she observed. “I expect to be introduced to new approaches to education that will further strengthen my effectiveness as an educator.”

The program incorporates structured academic components, such as guided reflections and daily blog posts that are designed to guide participants in connecting their insights to broader course objectives. The students will also write a final analysis that integrates learning from both countries and connects these observations to their professional development.

Oversight is provided by Dr. Bernhard Martin, Study Abroad director, in collaboration with Deborah Hill. International travel logistics, school visits, and cultural programming are coordinated through CEPA, an organization specializing in university‑level experiential learning programs in the U.S. and Europe.

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Become More at gardner-webb.edu.