In the very early hours of the last day of half term 35 very excited Year 6 girls and their equally excited teachers boarded a coach to set off for France. The girls were well prepared for their long awaited trip, having practised their French conversation with Mrs Morris and explored the Pas de Calais region, including the Channel Tunnel, in their LCC work.
The journey south flew by (accompanied by movies and lots of singing) and before they knew it they were emerging from the tunnel into the French countryside. They arrived at the Hotel de Moulin aux Draps, which nestles into a lush green valley outside the little market town of Desvres in glorious sunshine and were quickly settled into their rooms and ready for a tour of the hotel grounds with their animateur Quentin.
The first evening meal of delicious French specialities set the tone for the week and the girls’ speaking confidence blossomed. Very soon they were asking politely for more bread, water or cutlery in French.
The week flew by in a flurry of activities - the girls made croissants, milked goats, tasted snails and cheese. Visits to Nausicaa Aquarium in Boulogne and Le Touquet market and beach were highlights. Their visit to Etaples military cemetery and La Coupole held added poignancy in this anniversary year and the girls showed huge respect for the fallen soldiers.
Everywhere they went the girls were complimented on their manners and engagement in the activities; they worked and played brilliantly as a team and were a pleasure to take away.
Many photographs were taken and lifelong memories made.
