Chateau de la Baudonnière trip February 2006
February half-term 2006 saw the revival of the Third Form trip to France. 38 pupils along with Miss Holden, Mr Reardon, Miss Pike and Mr Lucas setting off with our friendly driver Miles to Normandy. Mothers waved us off gleefully, some asking if we wouldn’t mind taking their husbands as well – we declined naturally! For many of the pupils this was their first trip abroad without parents, although none seemed particularly phased by this. Perhaps it was the thought of the mountain of pain au chocolat they would be able to eat once in France; more likely it was the sobering thought of a 12-hour coach and ferry marathon they were about to endure. However, this passed without a hitch and we arrived somewhat bleary-eyed at Chateau de la Baudonnière in the middle of the night. After a quick chocolat chaud, pupils were packed off to bed – girls in the old stables, boys to the purpose-built Maison de la Verger. It didn’t take long for weary eyes to droop… much to the delight of the staff.
Thursday to Saturday were action-packed with activities such as a muddy assault course, climbing, orienteering, French lessons, archery and initiative exercises. The unique element of the Chateau is that all activities are conducted exclusively in French, despite the pupils’ limited knowledge. The highly experienced Animateurs at the chateau used fun and games, actions and demonstrations to get the message across, ensuring that everyone understood what they had to do. Although all were fluent in English, they did not once venture into it, even when pupils were struggling. It is a testament to their hard work that pupils were able to understand and take part in every activity.
Mealtimes were also impromptu French lessons, with the animateurs insisting that pupils asked for extra food from the kitchen in French. The phrase ‘Je voudrais encore du pain’ must surely have been imprinted on everyone’s brain by the end of the visit. Mealtimes also gave the less adventurous amongst the pupils opportunity to try out some French food they would never have at home. Many were pleasantly surprised that they actually liked French cheese, although most were less enamoured with the way the French like to cook beef!
Evenings were eventful too. One night had a dedicated French theme, with all pupils…. and teachers… having to wear fancy dress. Never has there been a more stereotypical group of French people! However, some did break from tradition and opted for Napoleon, the Phantom of the Opera and a French rugby player.This was followed up by a French quiz against another visiting school and some rather raucous French singing. A talent competition also flagged up a number of dark horses within our group. Amy Whittaker nearly had everyone in tears when she sang ‘Maybe’ from Annie, and Nicola Vundum wowed everyone with her ability to hoola-hoop.
Saturday give us an opportunity to visit a local market in Granville and also make purchases in a French hypermarché. Pupils had tasks to complete and questions to ask of customers, but they were definitely more interested in buying bonbons! The less that is said about the smell on the coach after several purchases of Camembert the better.
The students experienced a wonderful few days in France, completely immersed in French language and culture, and coming back to school with much more confidence in their abilities. Grateful thanks must go to all the staff that made it possible. Here’s hoping next year’s is just as successful!
Miss F E Holden