Over the Easter holidays, five of our French students and Mr Anderson visited France for a wonderful two-week cultural and language tour. Going as part of a joint trip with students from Geelong Lutheran College, our students travelled from Amiens in the north all the way to Montpellier in the south.
Highlights included the many significant sights of Paris, including hearing the bells ringing for Easter Sunday from the rebuilt Notre Dame Cathedral, and of course experiencing the Eiffel Tower. Beyond Paris, they enjoyed Versailles, visited Leonardo da Vinci’s own châteaux, explored the amazing walled city of Carcassonne, took trips to Roman ruins and even worked for their own dinner in a French cooking class.
A very special day was spent at Villers-Bretonneux and the Australian War Memorial in France. Students were able to see the rows of graves and visit the Sir John Monash Centre to learn more about the enormous sacrifices made by Australians in the field of battle.
“What was important to understand about WWI, when I visited there, is that the town displays an enduring connection between France and Australia which exists as a permanent relationship.” Rania
“At the top of the hill there was a marble wall with all of the names of those who were buried there. Seeing this wall and all the names of the soldiers, and knowing each engraving had a story and a life, stood out to me.” Lachlan
With many daily opportunities to practise French and immerse themselves deeply in French culture, our students had an unforgettable experience. We are grateful for the wonderful care and oversight of Mr Anderson throughout the trip, and also for Mrs K Brynes’ role in preparing the students through a number of pre-trip activities.