News Year 11 French Students Soak Up Parisian Culture and Language 07.11.2024

During half-term, 36 excited Year 11 students and five teachers embarked on an unforgettable trip to Paris for a full week of language immersion and cultural exploration.

Throughout their stay, the students lodged with French host families, creating the perfect setting to practise conversational French over meals and experience daily life à la française. Each morning, they attended lessons at a local language school, where their enthusiasm and effort reportedly impressed their French instructors.

Afternoons were reserved for cultural excursions, adding vibrant context to the students’ learning. The itinerary included guided tours of Paris’s iconic landmarks such as the opulent Opera Garnier, the breathtaking views from the Eiffel Tower, and the artistic treasures housed at the Musée d’Orsay. A highlight for many was the visit to les Grands Boulevards and Galeries Lafayette, where students enjoyed panoramic views from the rooftop and indulged in a little shopping spree, offering a notable boost to the Parisian economy!

With ‘Passes Navigo’ in hand, the girls navigated Paris with an extra dose of independence, hopping on and off the Metro as they explored different neighbourhoods. Beyond the museums, they enjoyed a scenic boat trip on the Seine, wandered the charming streets of Montmartre, and learned the art of balancing sightseeing with soaking up the ambiance of the City of Light.

The trip was not only a success in terms of language development but many students returned with a newfound love for Paris.