Our Year 7 pupils had a wonderful time visiting France last week, staying at the Château de la Baudonnière in Normandy, a centre dedicated to French language immersion and outdoor learning.
The trip got off to an exciting start with a journey across the Channel to Caen by ferry. After a long day of travelling, we arrived late at Château de la Baudonnière, eager to see our accommodation. The boys settled into the Caen dorms, while the girls made themselves at home in Mont Saint-Michel. With an early start ahead, everyone headed straight to bed, full of anticipation for the adventures to come.
Day two began with our first activities on site. The children tested their skills in Aeroball and Archery, enjoying some friendly competition and plenty of laughter. In the evening, Year 7 worked together in a team-building and problem-solving challenge, demonstrating excellent communication and cooperation.
Day three proved to be a particular highlight. In the morning, we visited the local markets, where the children had the opportunity to put their French language skills into practice by asking for items and interacting with stallholders. Many souvenirs were purchased, along with a few fashionable additions to wardrobes! Afterwards, we travelled to the spectacular Mont Saint-Michel. Year 7 explored the winding streets and admired the beauty and history of this remarkable monument. It was a memorable experience and one that many of the children will remember for years to come.
Day four brought more excitement and adventure. The morning began with bread making, and the children were able to enjoy their freshly baked creations with lunch. In the afternoon, Year 7 took on the Parkour Mud Run, which certainly tested everyone’s resilience and determination. The children army-crawled under ropes, leapt through tyres and climbed over obstacles before crossing the finish line completely covered from head to toe in mud. A quick wash in the river helped remove some of the evidence, but the laughter and smiles showed just how much everyone had enjoyed the challenge. The day ended with a sports tournament, with plenty of teamwork and friendly competition on display.
Our final full day at the Château was packed with even more fun. The children took to the water for canoeing, playing games in teams and also enjoyed capsizing the teachers! Afterwards we had time to enjoy the mini farm and feed the animals before putting navigation skills to the test with orienteering.
Day six saw an early start, with alarms sounding at 4am as we prepared for the journey home. After saying goodbye to Château de la Baudonnière and all the memories we had made, we crossed the Channel back to Portsmouth. Although everyone was tired after such a busy and exciting week, spirits remained high as the children reflected on the friendships formed, the challenges overcome and the experiences shared.
Bryanston Prep’s Head of English Jessica Leiper, commented: “The Year 7 Normandy residential was a great success. Throughout the week, the children represented the school exceptionally well, embracing every opportunity with enthusiasm, resilience and kindness. With language immersion at the heart of the experience, pupils were encouraged to use French in every activity, developing their confidence and cultural understanding.
“A huge thank you goes to all the staff who made the trip possible and to Year 7 for making it such a fantastic week.”
