Published on 16/07/24
In February seventeen students went on a trip to Nice in the south of France with Mme Parente and Mr Wigington.
The Year 10 trip was not only enriching linguistically but also culturally. Students enjoyed visiting Nice, Cannes, Eze, Antibes and learning how to make sweets and perfume. These visits really inspired the curiosity of our students and, thanks to tailor-made lessons, they developed their learning of the French language outside Stephen Perse Cambridge. Staying in French host families also helped them to develop strong interpersonal relationships and gave them an awareness of the French culture and way of life.
For the eleven Year 12 and Year 13 students, the Linguistic and Work Experience Trip not only helped them to improve their French language by having lessons every morning but also their interpersonal skills by encouraging them to step outside of their comfort zone, meet interesting people at work, experience the world of work and understand more about the world of work in France and the French way of life. They made some great connections, whether at work or with their host family and, for some of these students, these links will last longer than the time actually spent away as some of them are already thinking of returning to Nice on their own this year or next. All students were tired by the end of the week, particularly our Year 12 and Year 13 students due to the nature of their trip. Having to concentrate not only on their host family, lessons and work, finding their own way in an unfamiliar town is mentally and physically exhausting, but rewarding on so many levels: personal, linguistic, professional and cultural.
These two trips opened our students' minds to French culture and French working life and a taste of real life in France. They have increased their confidence in speaking French on a daily basis and made huge progress. The trips have given students the chance to deepen or create friendships, and to feel more connected as a group due to shared experiences. It has also given them responsibility for their workplace role.