The March 2005 French Exchange to Bois-le-Roi
The fifteenth exchange between Katharine Lady Berkeley’s School and Collège
Denecourt was, as usual, a real success for pupils, families and the schools.
Forty pupils and four teachers from each school enjoyed a trouble free and
engaging encounter both in England and in France.
Our party left KLB early Monday 6 June and soon the sun broke through for
what was to be 9 days of glorious weather. It was our first trip in June,
switching from our usual March visit, the sunshine and the more relaxed summer
atmosphere was a real bonus. After a long delay on the ferry due to repairs at
Calais, we met our host families for the start of our adventure.
Tuesday was spent in Bois-le-Roi seeing the town, the base-de-loisirs and
spending time in the school. In the afternoon traditional French board games, a
quiz, and even a little arm-wrestling, took place.
Wednesday morning was spent looking around the magnificent Fontainebleau
Chateau with its beautiful ballroom and gallery, as well as its tranquil lake
and gardens. A rest in the afternoon for the staff as pupils joined their
families – there is no school on Wednesday afternoon in France.
On Thursday and Friday we ventured into Paris, taking in the Eiffel Tower,
the Champs Elysées, Louvre, Notre Dame etc. At Samaritaine several pupils went
to the roof terrace to see a central view of Paris. They will be the last to do
this for many years as the famous store closed the following day for repairs,
perhaps for 10 years.
As usual at the weekend many activities took place: cycling, go-karting,
climbing, swimming, and the inevitable shopping for which some have an
insatiable appetite.
On our final day the delights of Disneyland Paris were enjoyed, before a
tearful farewell on Tuesday.
Many good friendships had been made and doubtless, as in other years, they
will be kept for some time.
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