FOLLOWING in the footsteps of the Australians who served on the Somme battlefields during the First World War was an unforgettable experience for 22 St John's students, four teachers and one parent.

The group attended the Anzac Day service at Villers-Bretonneux, which was recaptured by Australian forces from the Germans, as well as dozens of cemeteries and historical landmarks in the region.

Year 12 student Oliver Peak had the honour of reading a poem at the service and said the atmosphere was unreal.

"I could see there were thousands of people in front of me but it was too cold to be nervous," he said.

The young man said his visit to France and Belgium made him realise just how many people had given their lives for their country.

"It was an eye-opening experience ... seeing the thousands of graves was one thing, but for me it was looking at the graves of the unknown soldiers," he said.

Assistant principal Clinton McGoldrick was a driving force behind the trip and the former army engineer said his students were fortunate to attend and take part in the special Anzac service.

"The kids were very honoured to be given that opportunity," he said.

Mr McGoldrick said their time abroad allowed the students to gain an appreciation of the Anzac values and discover that the Australian troops were held in high esteem.

"They realised how many people put their lives on the line to defend Australia," he said.

During their trip the group visited the Albert school and council in France, with whom they have set up a connection and exchange program.