Year 10 France Trip

Donner vie à l'histoire! Bringing History to Life!

Our most recent Year 10 History & French Trip to France was an unforgettable experience, combining educational visits, cultural enrichment and plenty of opportunities for students to create lasting memories with their friends.

Throughout the four-day visit, students explored some of the most significant First World War battlefields and memorials in France, bringing their classroom learning to life through visits to sites such as Lochnagar Crater, Thiepval Memorial, Vimy Ridge and the Menin Gate. They also enjoyed cultural experiences including sampling French cuisine, visiting local shops and spending time in the beautiful surroundings of the château.

The trip concluded with a fun-filled day at Bellewaerde Theme Park before the journey home. At every stage, our students represented The Westleigh School with pride, earning praise from members of the public for their exemplary behaviour, respect and maturity.

We are incredibly proud of every student who took part and invite you to explore our daily updates and videos below to relive the highlights of another fantastic France Trip.

Day 1

What a fantastic first day for our Year 10 History & French students!

After a smooth journey to France, our students were exemplary throughout and have been an absolute credit to The Westleigh School. Upon arriving at the château and settling into their rooms, they spent the evening relaxing in the beautiful French countryside, enjoying games and making delicious crêpes together.

Tomorrow, students will embark on an unforgettable day exploring the battlefields of the First World War, bringing their History studies to life and deepening their understanding of this significant period in history.

Merci et à demain!

Day 2

We’ve had a fantastic and memorable day exploring the battlefields and trenches of the First World War.

Our Year 10 History & French students visited several significant sites, including Lochnagar Crater, Thiepval Memorial, Newfoundland Park, Vimy Ridge, and Essex Farm, where they learned about the story of Valentine Joe Strudwick, who was tragically killed in action at just 15 years old.

Later, we travelled into Ypres, where students enjoyed a visit to a Belgian chocolate shop before having dinner at the New Regina Restaurant. Staff at the restaurant were quick to compliment our students on their excellent behaviour - something that has been a consistent theme throughout the trip.

The day concluded with a moving visit to the Menin Gate for the Last Post Ceremony. Two of our students had the honour of laying a wreath on behalf of The Westleigh School and our wider community. It was a poignant moment that will stay with everyone for years to come.

After a busy and emotional day, students returned to the château to relax and watch the football together.

We are immensely proud of every student for the respect, maturity, and enthusiasm they have shown throughout the visit. They continue to be outstanding ambassadors for our school.

Quelle journée extraordinaire ! Nous sommes très fiers de vous tous.

Day 3

What a fantastic day our Year 10 students have had! They enjoyed an action-packed visit to Bellewaerde Theme Park, making memories with friends and taking on some exciting rides and attractions.

The day ended perfectly back at the château with a campfire, where students relaxed and reflected on another brilliant day together. There was even the opportunity for some adventurous students to try snails for tea!

We're so proud of how well our students are representing The Westleigh School!

Certains élèves courageux ont même goûté des escargots!