St Benedicts Catholic School and Collège Pierre Simon de Laplace (Lisieux), June 2024
In June 2024, students from St Benedict’s Catholic School embarked on a four-night educational tour of the Pays d’Auge region in Normandy. From the 10th to the 14th of June, the tour was filled with cultural exchange, historical exploration, and spiritual experiences, providing students with a well-rounded and enriching journey.
The tour began early on the 10th of June, with students departing from St Benedict’s Catholic School in Bury St Edmunds at 6:30 AM. The group traveled by coach to Dover, where they boarded a P&O ferry to Calais. After a scenic drive through the French countryside, they arrived at their accommodation in Lisieux, divided between Foyer Louis et Zélie Martin for the boys and Ermitage Saint Thérèse for the girls. The evening concluded with a pizza dinner, providing a warm and welcoming start to their Normandy adventure.
On the 11th of June, the students began their day with breakfast at their respective accommodations before heading to College Pierre Simon de Laplace in Lisieux. Here, they participated in a full day of language activities alongside French students, divided into two groups: one remaining at the school for immersive language lessons and cultural activities, while the other visited the British Normandy Memorial and Arromanches 360° Cinema to learn about the D-Day landings
In the late afternoon, the entire group visited the Basilica of Saint Thérèse de Lisieux, one of the most significant religious sites in France. Students had the unique opportunity to tour the dome at the top of the basilica, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The day ended with a communal dinner at Ermitage Saint Thérèse, fostering a sense of unity among the students.
The 12th of June focused on hands-on experiences and outdoor adventure. The day began with a visit to the Graindorge Fromagerie in Livarot, where students participated in a guided tour and cheese-making workshop, learning about the traditional methods of producing Normandy’s famous cheeses.
In the afternoon, the group traveled to Beauregard Aventure, a thrilling aerial trekking park set in the woods of the Château de Beauregard. The students enjoyed navigating through the treetop courses, challenging themselves physically while bonding with their peers. The evening concluded with dinner back at the accommodation, allowing the students to unwind after an exciting day.
On the 13th of June, the students returned to College Pierre Simon de Laplace for a second day of language exchange and cultural immersion. The activities were similar to those of the previous school day, with students participating in classroom lessons and interactive games alongside their French counterparts.
Later in the day, the group attended Mass at the Cathedral Saint Pierre de Lisieux, a beautiful and historic site in the heart of the town. This spiritual experience was a highlight for many students, providing a moment of reflection and connection to their faith.
The final day, 14th of June, began with breakfast and packing before the group set off for Bayeux. Here, they visited the famous Bayeux Tapestry Museum, learning about the Norman Conquest through this ancient and intricate embroidery. This was followed by the return journey to the UK, with the group arriving back at St Benedict’s Catholic School late in the evening, bringing their Normandy tour to a close.
Dates are in the diary for a return to Lisieux in 2025 to continue the school friendship.
