This year’s trip to Normandy was a great learning experience for the Y8 students, it was also great fun!
The journey made most feel at home, as they had been on many boats before. We had no time to worry about nerves; there were shops, cinemas, a café and an astonishing view.
On arrival, we were introduced to the extremely welcoming staff who, of course, only spoke to us in French. Even though it seemed a bit daunting at first, we could still understand them because of the occasional hand gesture. The grand chateau was set in the typical French countryside and had everything you could wish for: seven elegant peacocks, two cute ponies and baby lambs roaming freely. Not to forget, the picturesque lake where we got to enjoy some of the activities.
There was a wide selection of food at the Chateau. For breakfast there was bread, croissants, brioche, cereal, hot chocolate, milk and water. Lunchtimes varied from tasty baguettes to chicken curry. As did dinner, with beef stew to a BBQ! On our last night, we were given the opportunity to try snails. There were very mixed reviews. Some thought they were delicious, others, not so much. Overall, the food provided was amazing and gave us a good experience to learn about the culture.
On Thursday, we went to Bayeux. We had a police escort to get to see the Bayeux tapestry. It was very detailed and very interesting. After that, we went to the cathedral and took lots of beautiful photos. Later on, we went to Arromanches and went to a 360 degrees cinema. We went to the Gold beach – Tom ate a raw mussel!
On Friday, we stayed at the chateau for activities. We were put into groups (S, T, U and V) and went round the chateau, completing activities and filling in our learning journals. The activities provided were archery, aero-ball, canoeing, raft building, orienteering and the mini farm. They gave us a great opportunity to learn French – and to cuddle the bunnies!!!
On Saturday, we went to Granville market. We went to buy souvenirs for our families and friends. All the stall owners were really nice to us and helped us with our French. Then, we went to a supermarket to buy sandwich fillings for lunch. However, most people opted for sweets and chocolate! In the evening, there was a talent show and a disco afterwards. There were four acts: Hannah Chapman, Sophie Watkins, Amelia Farnell and the boys (Ali-A). Congratulations to Hannah on winning with her fantastic poem.
Overall, the trip to Normandy gave us a great opportunity to learn French, make friends and to have new experiences. Thank you to the wonderful staff, especially Miss Trezeux for organising this trip for us.
Amelia Farnell, Holly Cook and Sophie Watkins
