Trips, Expeditions and Exchanges

In March pupils spent six days in Norwich’s twin town of Rouen. With 12 hours of French tuition and evenings with host families, pupils had a really immersive experience using and improving their language skills. There were many highlights of the trip, including interviewing members of the public in a local park about their views on English and French stereotypes learning how to make macarons with a maître-patissier at his School of Pâtisserie being welcomed by French pupils and teachers during our visit to Collège Saint-Dominique, where languages play huge part in the curriculum. spending a wonderful day together exploring Paris- from the Arc de Triomphe to the Bateau Mouche and an afternoon exploring the meandering streets of Montmartre Mrs Watkinson, Mr Croston and Mrs Parkhouse were so impressed with the group’s open-minded attitude and willingness to use their French. Their confidence grew immeasurably through their daily interactions with the host families, language teachers, members of the public and in exchanges in shops and cafés. Equally, travelling everywhere on public transport gave us all a real feeling of adventure and an understanding of how easy and rewarding European travel can be. Pupils commented that: “My French improved a lot through communicating with the host family” “The excursion day in Paris was amazing! Inside Rouen, I really enjoyed the detailed city tour and the Joan of Arc museum.” “My French has improved tons, I can speak much more fluently and can hold conversations in French with my host family.” “French gets a lot easier towards the end of the trip and makes you better at French than everyone else.” “It’s a great experience to see how different cultures work and eat etc and definitely helps with French.” Taking part in such an overseas adventure in another language does more than just improve pupils’ language skills. Communication becomes paramount and we believe that undertaking such an endeavour necessitates a bit of bravery. Pupils become better conversationalists as a result, they uncover and revel in subtle cultural differences and deepen their understanding of their own heritage. They rely on the kindness of relative strangers and find the joy in the magic of putting the language they’ve been learning for years in the classroom to test ‘out in the field’, and finding that it actually works!

Lower Two embarked on an exciting residential trip to London , packed with history and adventure. We began at the London Eye, taking in iconic landmarks like Big Ben and Buckingham Palace from above. At the Paddington Experience, we immersed ourselves in the world of the beloved bear, followed by a scenic Thames River Cruise offering a fresh perspective on the city’s sights. After a night's stay at St Paul's, The Tower of London brought history to life, especially the pirate prisoner workshop, where pupils engaged in dramatic storytelling and interactive role-playing! Our trip ended on a high note with The Lion King at the Lyceum Theatre. The vibrant costumes, puppetry, and music made for an unforgettable performance. Tired but exhilarated, we headed home, knowing this London adventure would stay with us forever.