Teamwork, communication, cultural awareness and language skills: what better way to hone these than spending three days working with European partners in France?

In September, 21 Wellington pupils spent three days at their partner school near Paris. The emphasis was on sports and the girls and boys took part in sporting activities which are not on our curriculum: hiking, orienteering, climbing and handball. A real highlight was a behind-the-scenes visit to the Stade de France in Paris.

In the evenings, the participants were very well-looked after by their hosts. Many were taken to Paris to see the Eiffel Tower, and the Champs-Elysees.

In March, the French pupils will come to Scotland and we are looking forward to introducing them to our sports: netball, hockey, rugby and cricket.

Here is just some of the feedback from the participants:

The sports exchange was one of the best things ever. My favourite part was speaking to the French students. Everyone was so nice and inclusive. I met so many new people and feel that I have a strong bond with them and my connection with the people in my year got stronger. Handball was so much fun working with different people for a different sport was enjoyable and difficult at the same time. In my opinion I would definitely do a trip like this again.

Wonderful time in France.

My favourite activity was the climbing wall.

I was so excited to take an evening trip into Paris!

J’adore Paris!

The sports exchange was amazing; the activities, the sights, the people, the food. Just everything in general, I would definitely go again if I could.

The sports exchange was a fascinating trip. I enjoyed seeing the different ways of life out in France and what the world has to offer. Whoever has a closed mindset on things like this should really take a step back and see what they are missing out on. Even though I’m not very good at French, hearing my French host family talk in French and having discussions made me feel like I was a part of it all and like even though I couldn’t understand it, I understood the conversion. The trip in general was amazing with so many things to see.

I loved France and its beautiful culture, I think that my favourite part was trying snails (Never again🤣) and seeing the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It was a magical evening and beautiful to see in person!