French language immersion in Paris case study case study

David Whelpton, MFL Teacher at Newick C of E Primary School

"The learning objectives were for the students to learn French, but it’s also a celebratory post-exam trip before the students go their separate ways after Year 6. We travel in May as this is when the students finish their SATs exams. Some of the pupils have never been abroad, so it’s a really good experience and opportunity for them to grow and have a better cultural understanding, plus it’s also great for the group dynamic.

Our animateur Juju was really good and the animateurs are what give these tours such great value. He was excellent with the students, he was seen as cool and fun - the students respond differently to him than how they would with the teachers. Before each meal he would go through the cutlery items in French with the group and telling the students how to ask if they would like more food or drink in French.

As well as speaking French to the group, he would liaise with the coaches about timings and meeting points. Because he was so experienced, Juju would know how much time for each visit and if you could achieve what you wanted to see in say 3 hours. It meant we could maximise our time in each place.

Trip highlights include the Eiffel Tower. Pupils thought they knew what to expect, but it was so much more than what they were anticipating. Some were scared by the height, so it was a challenge, but they were proud of themselves when they reached  the top and overcame things they didn’t think they could do.

The aqualboulevard waterpark, which they had to themselves and the bateaux mouche trip to see the sights were also highlights.

On the last day the students were given an ice cream break and set the task to identify the flavour they wanted - they all confidently asked for their own ice creams in French! They were also given the freedom to go shopping on their own in the Artist Quarter, a safe street with teachers at each end. A wonderful way to round off the trip."