French Trip

Modern Language / History  Department Trip to Belgium and France 2010

Throughout the months leading up to the French and History trip on the 26 of June, excitement levels were high. Pupils chatted between themselves in anticipation of what lay ahead. The one thing we were not looking forward to was the early starts each morning, especially the 02:15 start on our journey to Brussels.

On arrival in Belgium, we visited the interactive ‘In Flanders Fields Museum’ in the town of Ypres which gave us a harrowing insight into what life was like during World War One. That evening we were treated to a game of ten pin bowling. 

Day two came bright and early, and after a delicious breakfast we received a guided tour of Tyne Cot Cemetery and Essex Farm, where the poet John McCrae was buried. We later visited Langemaark German Cemetery. This was in contrast to the other cemeteries as the headstones were in black, a symbol of defeat. In the afternoon we headed to the Bellewaerde Theme Park with all its exciting attractions and animals. The sombreros and huge slushees proved to be extremely popular. To finish off a brilliant day we had a karaoke contest, much to the delight of Mr Strong and a reluctant Mr. McKee, who gave us their rendition of Britney Spears, ‘Oops… I Did It Again’.

On Monday morning after another delicious breakfast we departed for Paris via the Somme. This included visits to the Somme Visitor Centre and the Thiepval Memorial where three Year 9 girls laid a poppy wreath in memory of the past pupils of Newry High. We found the names of those past pupils on the huge pillars of the monument.

Following a short visit to the Ulster Tower, built in memory of the 36^th Ulster Division, we stopped in Amiens for lunch. On arrival in Paris we promenaded down the avenue Champs Elysées and much to the girls’ delight we spotted designer shops such as Prada, Gucci and Chanel. The evening entertainment was a popular table quiz won by the 6^th formers who were helped by James from Year 8.

Next morning there was great excitement because we were heading to Disneyland Paris. This was the highlight of the trip and it didn’t disappoint. Among the main attractions, Space Mountain was the favourite by far. Other popular rides included Big Thunder Mountain and the Indiana Jones rollercoaster. After watching the Disney parade we headed back to the coach, with Cathy and Rowan looking very chic in their new cowboy outfits.

Our last evening was celebrated by the traditional awards ceremony. Much to Mr Strong’s disappointment Geoffrey was voted “Karaoke King”. Other worthy winners were Cathy for “Karaoke Queen”, Anton for “Brightest Shorts” and Joe for “Biggest Chatterbox”.

The final day began with a guided tour of Paris during which we saw President Sarkozy and his police entourage. We arrived at the Eiffel Tower and everyone was astounded at its height and impressed by the views. Laura-Mae told everyone she would love to be proposed to on the Eiffel Tower. Unfortunately for her no one did. A shopping spree in the Rue de Rivoli ensured that all pocket money was finally spent. Our final stop was the Stade de France where the guided tour impressed even the non football fans amongst us.

We arrived back at school where our parents were waiting and everyone went home for a well deserved sleep. We all really enjoyed the trip and everyone returned home with a little piece of Paris. On behalf of all 38 pupils we would like to thank Miss Patterson, Miss Blakely, Miss Paul, Mr Strong and Mr McKee, for making the trip a huge success.

Craig Anderson, Christine Cartmill, Geoffrey Hodgett, Laura-Mae Johnston and Pamela McWilliams - Year 13