Ormiston Venture Academy saw students fully immerse themselves in French language and culture during a four-day trip to Paris.
A group of Year 11 and Year 10 students travelled to the French capital alongside the academy’s Modern Foreign Languages team, taking part in a carefully planned programme designed to bring their classroom learning to life.
Throughout the visit, students practised their language skills in real-life settings, including ordering food in local bakeries and speaking with native French speakers.
The trip also offered a rich cultural experience, with students exploring some of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Highlights included climbing the steps of Sacré-Cœur for sweeping views across the city, visiting the renowned Musée d’Orsay to see works by artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet, and taking a scenic boat tour along the River Seine, passing landmarks including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower.
Students also enjoyed time at Disneyland Paris, providing a chance to relax and enjoy the experience together while continuing to engage with the language in a more informal setting.
The trip concluded with a reflective visit to the Canadian National Vimy Memorial, offering important historical insight, alongside a trip to a French supermarket to experience a glimpse into everyday French life.
Sapphire Greeves, Modern Foreign Languages Teacher, said: “Throughout the trip, students were a credit to the school, demonstrating enthusiasm, curiosity and excellent behaviour. It was great to see them applying their language skills in real-life situations and growing in confidence as the trip went on.
“The experience not only supported their language learning but also gave them a deeper appreciation of French culture and created lasting memories. It is an opportunity that will stay with them for years to come.”
Simon Gilbert-Barnham, Principal said: “We are committed to ensuring our students have access to experiences that extend beyond the classroom and open their eyes to the world around them.
“This trip is a great example of that in action – giving students the chance to immerse themselves in a different culture and engage with their language learning in a meaningful and memorable way.”