Oldfield Brow Primary School and Ecole Caubriere (Honfleur), May 2024
In May 2024, the students of Oldfield Brow Primary School set off on an exciting Key Stage 2 educational tour of the Pays d’Auge region in Normandy. From the 20th to the 23rd of May, this four-day trip provided a rich blend of cultural exchange, hands-on learning experiences, and historical exploration that left a lasting impact on the young students.
The adventure began on the 20th of May with an early morning departure from Oldfield Brow Primary School in Altrincham. After a long coach journey to Dover, the group crossed the English Channel by ferry, arriving in Calais in the afternoon. From there, they traveled to their accommodation at Foyer Louis et Zélie Martin in Lisieux, Normandy. The evening concluded with a warm welcome presentation, a tour of the facilities, and a relaxing dinner, featuring a pizza delivery that delighted the students after their long journey.
The 21st of May was dedicated to a full day of cultural exchange in Honfleur. After breakfast, the students traveled to Ecole Caubrière, where they spent the day interacting with French children. The day was packed with various activities both in the school and around the beautiful town of Honfleur, known for its rich artistic heritage and charming harbor. This experience provided the students with an invaluable opportunity to practice their French language skills and immerse themselves in the local culture. After a fulfilling day, the group returned to their accommodation for dinner.
On the 22nd of May, the day began with a visit to the Drakkar Chocolaterie in Bayeux. Here, the students learned about the art of chocolate-making, including a fascinating workshop where they had the chance to make and taste regional delicacies. This hands-on experience was both educational and delicious, making it a favorite part of the trip for many.
The afternoon took the students to the Arromanches 360° Circular Cinema, where they watched an immersive film about the events of D-Day. The visit was further enriched by time spent on the beach at Arromanches, where the remnants of the artificial harbor from World War II provided a tangible connection to history.
The day concluded with a guided tour of the Basilica of Saint Thérèse in Lisieux, located conveniently next to their accommodation. The students marveled at the scale and beauty of this significant religious site, with some even braving the climb to the top of the dome for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The final day, the 23rd of May, saw the group packing up after breakfast and beginning their journey back to the UK. The return trip included a ferry crossing from Calais to Dover, with the group finally arriving back at Oldfield Brow Primary School in the evening, bringing with them wonderful memories and new friendships forged during their time in Normandy.
