16/10/2026
France Residential
"I’ve really enjoyed experiencing a completely different culture. I love how different the architecture is. The village and town markets are really fascinating, with such a range of produce. I have really appreciated the opportunity to explore the different museums and galleries in small groups, as it allowed us to discuss them in greater depth. Going up the Eiffel Tower is something I will never forget!"
Two o’clock on a sleepy Monday morning marked the start of a five-day trip to Paris as part of a combined Language and Art adventure for the 40 resilient souls who boarded the coach at Budehaven School.
As well as popular visits to the Stade de France, the Champs-Élysées and the unforgettable illuminated Eiffel Tower, the group were able to appreciate the many art forms showcased by the flamboyant Opéra Garnier and the Palace of Versailles. They also visited Père Lachaise Cemetery, explored the haunts of many artists in the iconic Montmartre district, and viewed paintings spanning different periods and movements in a variety of galleries and historic buildings, before focusing on the Impressionists. Many were awed by Claude Monet’s inspirational gardens in picturesque Giverny, Normandy.
The combined elements of French language and culture were visible at every turn. It was particularly rewarding to hear GCSE French students speaking more fluently each day, while others who had never learnt French before were taking opportunities to practise in shops and restaurants, solve problems at the hotel, and communicate with local sellers in the markets. Food discovery and enjoyment also played a significant part in the trip. Even the topical music played by Mr Wilkes in preparation for our visits was a source of education!
The group undertook a long walk alongside the Seine from Place de la Concorde, where Marie Antoinette famously lost her head and where the stage remained in place following the Pope’s visit just three days earlier. The promenade through the Tuileries Gardens, the Louvre complex and on to Notre-Dame provided opportunities to learn more about France’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Versailles not only showcased the grandeur of the last French monarchs, but also provided a link to our first visit, en route to Paris, to Vimy Ridge, the site of a significant First World War battle. Here, the roles were somewhat reversed, with some of our students able to fill in details about life in the trenches.
It was wonderful to observe this group coming together, looking out for one another and embracing every opportunity for enjoyment and learning throughout the week.
Well done, everyone!
