Feeling hot, hot, hot!
Claremont students brave the heat to enjoy the sights and sounds of Paris
Being a student at Claremont High School really is a passport to other countries, cultures and languages as the recent MFL trip to France proved. From 22nd to 26th June 2026, students from years 7 to 10, led by Ms Grandjean and several members of staff, enjoyed all that Paris has to offer.
They visited Vimy Ridge and the trenches, Sacré Coeur, Montmartre, Versailles and the palace, the Parc Astérix, cruised on the River Seine to see the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, shopped at Les Halles and local markets and ate at a crêperie.
It certainly made a lasting impression on the pupils…
‘I enjoyed all of the sightseeing,’ says Mahi Bhudia in Year 10, ‘the landmarks were so beautiful and had so much history behind them. I learnt a lot about French history, from wars to kings. I also learnt a lot of new French words and phrases that I will definitely be using in my French lessons in future.’
‘I enjoyed visiting the Palace of Versailles,’ adds Khushi Agravat, Year 9, ‘the rooms were so elegant and were covered in beautiful pieces of art, along the walls and ceilings! It was especially fun to look for suns in the artworks representing the Sun King. I learnt so many things about French history, plus its modern culture as well. We were well informed about how and why all the monuments were commissioned and what they represented. I also improved my vocabulary, speaking with people in different places.’
‘I really loved exploring Paris on foot,’ says Alyssa Manta in Year 8. ‘It helped me see everything in close detail at a more relaxed pace, plus it helped get my steps in!’
‘I will take all the spectacular views and interesting information from Paris,’ says David Dumitrache, Year 7, ‘so that when I go again, I’ll be prepared to show my friends and family all the mind-blowing things I experienced during this visit!’
Ms Grandjean was clearly pleased with both the trip and the students. ‘Despite the intense heat (our coach registered 46 degrees on the Wednesday!), our pupils were enthusiastic and kind. It was really heartwarming to see them be so inquisitive about French culture - food in particular - and our tour guide said how impressed she was by them. I can't thank our teachers enough for all their hard work. Ms Bhanderi, Ms Cairns and Mr Sithambaranathan did an amazing job taking care of everyone and ensuring they all had the best experience possible.’