Tours French trip

At 7:30 early one Friday morning King’s Cross Station was shaken into life as a motley group of CLS students, some accompanied by more baggage than others, struggled on to the Eurostar. Nine hours and four trains later, we finally emerged into bright sunshine at the magnificent “Gare De Tours” where, after a fine tea, we were immediately swept up by our host families. While I can only really speak for myself, my family were certainly a delight, and many commented that they had had similar experiences. We were able to enjoy the weekend in their company, during which most of the students had the opportunity to visit at least one of the many magnificent Chateaux in the Loire Valley.

The group reconvened on Monday morning to much joyful greeting, and many tales of French families and cuisine were swapped. There then began the first of an intensive series of lessons. This was followed by the work experience, after a lengthy two hour lunch break, in various areas in and around Tours. The placements ranged from a Garden Centre to the Tourist Office and from an Irish Shop to the Holiday Inn. Despite the differing nature of the placements, almost everyone gained a new perspective into working life in France. Personally, I was thrilled at the little tea shop to which I was assigned and I found the staff to be both communicative and friendly. The week continued in the same vein, and by the time Friday came, we were all wearied by the effort of a week’s immersion in a foreign language, and perhaps a little disappointed to be leaving sunny Tours for the routine of London life.

Nevertheless, as we made our way home, there was unanimous consent that the trip had been really worthwhile, and that it had not only been immensely enjoyable but had also had immense linguistic benefits. Many thanks not only to Miss Vincent, Mr Dowler and, especially, Mr Laidlaw, who organised the trip, but also to the French families and organisations, who helped make it a unique experience for all those who were lucky enough to be involved.

Robert van’t Hoff J6WER