Junior French Trip

A group of 74 very excited Year 8 students set off to France last Friday; they had a smooth journey, the sun beamed down and the sea was calm with just a gentle breeze, everything went well. The first night, after their arrival, students set about a treasure hunt followed by volleyball, cricket, frisbee, and football on the field outside the Chateau.

Saturday

The next morning bright and early they set off to spend time with Ludo, a French chef, learning how to make mayonnaise under his very clear guidance. The best teams were judged, and there was only one accident in the upside-down bowl test!

Students then took off for a short walk to the local market, where their French language was tested and delicacies were bought; from roast chickens and baguettes to sweets and baseball caps.

After lunch the coach took students to Nausicaa, the largest aquarium in Europe. A happy two hours were spent filming the rays, sharks, penguins and much more – it really is an incredible place. Carrying on, students called in at a hypermarket to pick up more presents and essentials for a French trip (including student-size bags of popcorn!).

Finally, to finish their very busy day, students were treated to a trip to beautiful Berck beach where they had the opportunity to play games, sit and chat or be creative in the sand for a few hours.

Sunday

Sunday was another busy day, and students began at Accrobranches, scaling huge trees and testing their limits. Unfortunately, the weather was not as kind as it had been the day before, and the heavens opened – however, absolutely no-one complained and just as much fun was had – possibly more!

The coach’s heating was blasted and sauna conditions were achieved to warm students through and dry their clothes as they left Accrobranches and headed for their next stop at the ice rink. Those that could, whizzed around showing off their skills. The majority worked hard at trying to stay on their feet and were fairly proficient by the end of the session, but for some, who found the whole experience and challenge of staying upright just a step too far, sat happily enjoying the spectacle instead.

That evening there was a movie to watch, and time to consume some of those giant-size popcorn bags! They were due to watch Tintin, but due to climatic interference the connection failed which was a little disappointing, but once the storm cleared playtime resumed and fun was had by all.

Monday

The final day students stopped and spent time at a boulangerie, where they learned about the traditional bread making process in French, and even made their own croissant – learning the ingredients as they went along.

Next it was onwards to Calais for the return leg, the students happy and exhausted from what was a fun-filled, jam-packed weekend in France. Unfortunately thanks to the queues at Calais they didn’t leave France until 4.00pm so returned quite exhausted, but after such a great trip they happily took it all in their stride.

Thank you to everyone who made this trip possible, our teachers, parents and of course our students, who were a joy to take and a credit to the School at all times.