An Unforgettable French Adventure

Bon voyage!

After a 5am start and long and tiring day of travel pupils were very glad to settle into their rooms on Monday evening. Everyone was impressed with the beautiful chateau, located in the Picardy region of Northern France, certainly giving the children an archetypal French experience! The children tucked into a lovely dinner before exploring, unpacking and preparing for a good night sleep.

A day in Amiens

For the first full day in France the children visited Amiens where they got to do a spot of shopping. A visit to the Notre-Dame then followed, where they had a tour of the cathedral, which didn’t fail to impress!

In the afternoon the group visited the Grotte de Niaux where they explored the underground system used during both the first and second world wars. The children thoroughly enjoyed this unique experience of a mysterious journey into the heart of history.

The highlight of the day has to be indulging in a crepe at a traditional French creperie.

The children returned to the chateau to a hearty dinner followed by an evening of entertainment including volley ball and Pétanque.

Paris, je t’aime

Day 3 and it’s off to Paris! Pupils started the morning off with incredible views from the Montparnasse Observatory.

The children ascended the tower to the top floor where they enjoyed magnificent views of the city, pupils were also able to identify and learn about the most significant landmarks in Paris. Children enjoyed the opportunity to spend some of their spending money at the souvenir shop at the top of the tower, in addition to buying a snack or drink at the café too! They were also lucky that the terrace at the very top of the tower was open so they could benefit from taking in the views from a different angle.

Next up was a boat river cruise along La Seine which was simply fantastic! Pupils enjoyed close up views of the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Le Musée D’Orsay and many more! After the river cruise the children enjoyed an ice cream which they successfully ordered themselves using their French language skills!

After a jam packed day the children returned to the château to a delicious dinner followed by some excellent sport games led by Mr Moffatt.

Delving into history

It was a busy and memorable last day in France firstly visiting the Albert Museum in the town of Albert, then progressing to Thiepval, the largest Commonwealth war memorial in the world and Beaumont Hamel. To end the days explorations the children had a quick visit to Mont Didier where they fitted in some last minute shopping and French language practice.

On Friday it was an early start to catch the ferry home. The children did the school proud, demonstrating excellent behaviour and a genuine enthusiasm in every opportunity presented to them. Well done! Now for a well deserved rest for the pupils and staff alike.