After a pleasant crossing from Portsmouth to Caen, the children arrived at the Etoile de la Mer accomodation. They were welcomed by Martin, their ‘animateur’ for the duration of their stay and they had their first taste of French food when they sampled ‘chocolat chaud' and ‘madeleine’.

The following days saw the group participate in all sorts of interesting and exciting activities. They visited a goats' farm, where they learnt all about producing various types of cheeses. They also went to the Mont Saint Michel where they discovered the history behind this renowned and beautiful site. Their visits took them also to Bayeux where they found out about the Battle of Hastings through looking at the famous tapestry, and to the amazing Arromanches 360° cimema, where the witnessed some of the important stages of the Second World War.

Their activites at the Château de la Baudonniere taught them to make bread, and to experience fencing and orienteering. All the vocabulary used was in French and it was impressive to hear them use newly learnt expressions on a day to day basis.

Amongst the food sampled, the children will remember the taste of goats' cheese and most memorable of all - the escargots!

This was a very positive trip and everyone left France with wonderful memories. Mrs Goodwin, Mr Kiddy and Mme Kiddy have been impressed once again by how well the children behaved both in public and during their activities at the Château.

We look forward to 2011 with eager to anticipation and our next visit to ‘La Belle France’.

Mme Kiddy