News Year 11 Students Immerse Themselves in French Life on Montpellier Trip 30.10.2025

During the first week of half term, 23 Year 11 French students swapped the classroom for the sights and sounds of Montpellier, a vibrant city in the South of France renowned for its history, art, and Mediterranean charm. The group spent the week fully immersed in French language and culture, staying with welcoming host families and studying in small groups at LSF Montpellier, a prestigious French language school.

Each day began with lively French lessons and ended with a taste of local life. Lunchtimes became a highlight, as the students explored the delights of a traditional boulangerie, sampling everything from buttery croissants to delicate pâtisseries and freshly baked baguettes.

Afternoons were filled with enriching cultural excursions. A guided walking tour introduced the students to Montpellier’s fascinating history – including its claim to the oldest medical school in Europe – while a crêpe-making workshop offered a deliciously hands-on experience. At the Musée Fabre, Mrs Davis led a session on aesthetics and the philosophy of art, inspiring students to see masterpieces in a new light.

A day trip to Nîmes, often called “the French Rome,” transported the group back to ancient times as they explored the city’s beautifully preserved Roman temple and amphitheatre. To round off the trip, there was time for some light-hearted fun with bowling and shopping, proving that language learning and modern culture go hand in hand.

Both the host families and the language school staff praised the students for their impressive level of French and their enthusiasm throughout the week and some families even took their guests on extra evening outings, to the beach, for example.

Even a few days of unexpected rain couldn’t dampen spirits. By the end of the week, students returned home with improved language skills, fond memories, and a deeper appreciation of French culture, proof that the best classroom is sometimes found abroad.

“C’était une expérience inoubliable!” – An unforgettable experience indeed.