Our students from Years 9, 10, and 11 have recently returned from an unforgettable residential trip to Paris, filled with linguistic challenges, iconic landmarks, and a great deal of laughter. From the moment we arrived at our PGL centre, it was clear this would be a trip to remember. As Mrs Hill, Languages teacher and trip organiser, noted:

“It has been such a pleasure to see our students from across three year groups coming together and immersing themselves in French culture.”

The adventure began with a warm welcome from the PGL staff and a “memorable” evening quiz—featuring a solo singing performance by Max (Year 9) that we won’t be forgetting anytime soon. The following morning, the group headed to Parc Astérix, where students navigated the park with impressive confidence, using their French to order snacks and find their way between the white-knuckle rides.

The group braved the record-breaking speeds of Toutatis, soared through the air on the inverted coaster OzIris, and took a thorough soaking on the Romus et Rapidus river rapids.

“The trip was an amazing experience,” said Oscar R, a Year 11 student. “Going from the massive coasters at Parc Astérix to seeing the Eiffel Tower in person was brilliant.”

The day was perfectly rounded off back at the accommodation with a crêpe-making masterclass, where flipping skills were put to the ultimate test.

Our final full day was dedicated to the magic of the capital. The itinerary was packed, starting with the iconic Eiffel Tower and a scenic cruise down the River Seine, which gave us a brilliant perspective of the city’s famous architecture.

Mrs Hill observed that “watching them grow in confidence, whether they were ordering their first crêpe in French or navigating the Parisian streets, is exactly why we run these trips. They have been a credit to the school.”

The group took a moment to admire the exterior of the Notre-Dame Cathedral, marvelling at its scale, before climbing the heights to the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The afternoon was spent in the artistic hub of Montmartre, where students soaked up the atmosphere, did some souvenir shopping, and enjoyed the panoramic views of the skyline.

Oscar R added, “It was great to spend time with friends outside of the classroom”

We finished our Parisian adventure back at the PGL base, sharing stories and reflecting on the trip around a traditional campfire. We arrived back early Monday morning, tired but full of fantastic memories. A huge thank you to all the staff and students who made this such a successful and vibrant trip!