Colaiste Bhride Erasmus Programme - Flipbook - Page 6
Erasmus
P R O G R A M M E
FRENCH EXCHANGE - OCTOBER 2024
In October last, twenty-six students embarked on an enriching exchange trip to Château-Gontier,
France. What began as a short journey abroad soon unfolded into a tapestry of discovery, friendship,
and cultural immersion, carefully woven over ten remarkable days.
The adventure commenced in the heart of France - Paris. For two days, the students experienced the
City of Light in all its elegance. The Eifel Tower shimmered above them, the Champs-Élysées
welcomed them to its array of luxury shop fronts while the Arc de Triomphe stood proud and serene
as they climbed its steps. Montmartre, with its majestic Basilique du Sacré-Cœur, glistened in the
glorious October sunshine as the students soaked up the sun and the ambiance of this prominent
hillside landmark. A late evening boat ride along the Seine ofered a fresh view of the iconic city,
providing moments of calm renection between the lively sights and sounds of the bustling
metropolis. Paris, with all its character and charm, provided the perfect beginning to the students’
stay, allowing them to immerse themselves in the language and culture of France’s renowned capital.
The group then journeyed to Château-Gontier, where the authentic experience of the exchange
awaited. For the next eight days, students were welcomed by their French correspondents from Lycée
Victor Hugo, where they experienced the vibrant reality of French daily life. Throughout the week,
they joined their hosts in the classroom, navigating both academic subjects and lively conversations
that deepened their connection to the French language while simultaneously forming bonds that
would last well beyond the exchange. Alternate days were spent exploring the Troglodyte region,
the town of Angers, the nearby Mine Bleue where slates were mined for many years, as well as the
famous Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel on the coast of Normandy.
Over the years, this French exchange has become a cherished tradition in Coláiste Bhríde, evolving
with each passing year into a true cultural bridge between our two schools, and countries. Thanks to
the incredible support of the Erasmus+ grant, the programme has nourished in recent years, allowing
students not only to enhance their language skills but also to broaden their horizons and
perspectives. This year’s trip, like each one before it, was a powerful reminder of the value of shared
experiences and the joy of connecting across borders.
We look forward to the next chapter of this exchange in March 2025, when we will welcome our
French friends to Ireland. Our students are eager to share the warmth of our school and the plethora
of our Irish traditions, strengthening the bonds that continue to grow through this invaluable
linguistic and cultural exchange.
