We had a fabulous day out, taking 75 year 7s to Boulogne on 12^th June. There was much excitement as we met at 5.30am (everyone prompt to arrive, with big smiles) to board the ferry, many for the first time. Not a single person seasick, we were off to a good start!

First stop was Boulogne Old Town, where we completed a scavenger hunt to find the sites of interest located within the pretty cobbled streets and 13^th century ramparts. We, of course, found time to stop for souvenirs and ice cream, before welcoming the shade and sanctuary of the Basilique Notre Dame.

After a picnic (and more ice cream), we spent the afternoon at Nausicaá, Europe’s largest aquarium. It was lovely to see the delight on our students’ faces as they watched an 8 metre giant Manta ray glide past, or marvelled at the sea lions paying in the sun – not to mention holding noses in the penguin zone (cute as they were).

Some comments from students following trip include ‘Miss, please can you take us back there?’, ‘Wow the French chocolate chip baguettes were soo good’, ‘the Manta Ray was amazing, taller than me!’, ‘Who know penguins were so cute but pongy!’, ‘It was so exciting to go on a ferry’. A good time was had by all.

Our students really made us proud, with their enthusiasm, behaviour and stamina! It was a tough choice but our beret awards for the day go to the following students:

Beret awards:

Isobel Herbert: Helpfulness and politeness to all around her, throughout the day.

Harley –May Pallett: Hard work throughout the day, completing the scavenger hunt and the jobs and career spot worksheets.

Cameron Gibson – Got on with everything throughout the day in great humour, no complaining, despite being a group without his close friends – and getting ready so quickly, as he was reserve and only got his place the day before.

Ava Graham – Made a real effort to communicate and talk to everyone around her, also making new friends from a school in Wales!

Jason Gigi – Making a real effort to speak French, plus smiling and saying ‘bonjour’ to everyone he passed.

Sebastian Jarvis  - Enthusiasm throughout the day, taking a real interest in what he saw in the old town and asking lots of questions. And ‘Joyeux Anniversaire’ - it was also his birthday!

A big thank you to all staff who accompanied the trip and help with the organisation and covering of classes. And, of course, a huge thanks and well done to all our year 7s who took part in the trip. Bon travail!

Mrs Williams