From Nice to Monaco: An Unforgettable Languages Trip for Our Students

During the October half-term, a group of ten students from Years 10 to 13 enjoyed an unforgettable five-day French immersion trip to Nice, staying with local host families and experiencing life on the French Riviera.

After arriving in Nice, the group dropped off their luggage at the language school before meeting their host families. To begin their French adventure, students enjoyed a walk through the city and along the iconic Promenade des Anglais.

Each morning, students attended three-hour language lessons designed to develop their confidence and communication skills in French. Despite heavy rain forcing the cancellation of a guided tour of Nice on Tuesday, the group made the most of the day with a trip to the cinema to watch the latest adaptation of Les Misérables. This was particularly enjoyed by students involved in the school's own production of the musical.

The sunshine returned on Wednesday as students travelled by train to the beautiful coastal town of Antibes. Guided by Mathilde, they explored the harbour's impressive yachts, wandered through the picturesque old town and visited the Picasso Museum. There was also time to relax on the beach, browse the shops and enjoy a well-earned ice cream.

Thursday's excursion took the group to Monaco. After exploring the glamorous district of Monte Carlo, with its famous casino, luxury cars and designer boutiques, students crossed the harbour by boat to visit the renowned Oceanographic Museum. They also explored the historic area surrounding the Prince's Palace, although a glimpse of Prince Albert remained elusive.

On their final morning, students exchanged the classroom for the vibrant streets of Nice's Old Town. They were challenged to interview local market traders and residents in French, putting their language skills into practice in real-life situations. The students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and confidence.

The trip provided a fantastic opportunity for students to improve their French, develop independence and experience everyday life in France. From navigating public transport and ordering lunch each day to communicating with host families and local residents, students gained valuable cultural and linguistic experiences that will stay with them long after their return home.

Student Reflections

"Antibes was a favourite day trip, but we also really enjoyed choosing our own lunch every day and the amount of free time and independence we had. Dom, the bakery, was our favourite!"
Alice and Jemima, Year 10

"The trip was amazing and really helped my French. The lessons were great and our teacher helped me understand so much. Antibes and Monaco were definitely my highlights."
Olivia, Year 10

"I loved the variety of activities and the sights in Monaco and Antibes, as well as the unexpected cinema trip."
Eva, Year 10

"My highlight was Monaco, and I also enjoyed the independence we were given throughout the trip."
Mia, Year 11

"The lessons were the perfect level and I learned a lot while having fun. I also loved Antibes because it was so beautiful. Our host family was wonderful, the food was amazing and it was great speaking French with them."
Bea, Year 13

"I really enjoyed visiting Antibes and the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco. Staying with a host family was great for practising my French."
Annabelle, Year 11

"My highlight was having dinner with my host family."
Elizabeth, Year 11

"The lessons were engaging and informative, and I learned a lot from them. The excursions were fascinating and I loved taking photos of the beautiful places we visited. My favourite part was the aquarium in Monaco, especially the incredible views from the museum."
Paloma, Year 11

The trip was a tremendous success, leaving students with improved language skills, greater confidence and many lasting memories of their time on the French Riviera.