Over 100 pupils from Swindon’s Orchid Vale, Bridlewood, and Red Oaks primary schools have returned from an unforgettable cultural trip to Paris, marking the largest combined overseas trip organised by the schools.
During the four-day excursion, which took place between 22nd and 25th November, students and staff immersed themselves in the sights and sounds of the French capital with the group visiting iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, enjoyed a guided tour around central Paris, and took a scenic boat ride along the River Seine.
A highlight for many was the day spent at Disneyland Paris, where the magic of the Disney parade brought joy and wonder to all.
The trip also included a hands-on cooking class, where pupils learned the art of making crêpes. For the more adventurous, the experience of sampling traditional French escargot (snails) added an extra layer of excitement and cultural discovery.
In addition to sightseeing, the children had the chance to practise their French language skills and forge new friendships across the three schools. This unique collaboration, part of The Park Academies Trust’s (TPAT) efforts to bring its community closer together, helped the students develop confidence, independence, and an appreciation for European culture.
Funding for the trip was bolstered by a creative fundraising effort. Pupils and staff from Red Oaks cycled a collective 320 miles – the equivalent of the distance from Swindon to Paris – in a sponsored race against Orchid Vale, ahead of the Olympic Games in July.
Rachel Surch, Director of Primary at The Park Academies Trust, reflected on the success of the trip: “This has been a fantastic trip, our biggest ever, and alongside the educational experiences there was so much excitement; there was a great sense of awe and wonder when the children saw the Eiffel Tower for the first time and seeing their faces when the Disney Parade started was just priceless! I’d like to thank all the amazing staff for their brilliant organisation and also our parents and carers for their generous support for the fundraising which allowed this memorable trip to go ahead.”
Geoff Bryan, also from The Park Academies Trust, added: “It was a pleasure to accompany 102 children from across the TPAT Primary Schools on their PGL residential trip to Paris. All of the students and staff had a fantastic time, personal highlights were helping children conquer their fear of heights climbing the Eiffel Tower, and the pure joy and excitement of watching the Disney parade. The hard work by Mrs Surch in coordinating and organising the trip ensured that
Caroline Prictor, a staff member from Orchid Vale Primary School, shared her perspective: “It was Such a fantastic experience for the children, the opportunity to be away from their comfort zone, discovering a different country, language, food and culture. Being brave and trying new things encourages the development of life skills and independence. For staff, we had the opportunity to work as a team with staff from across the TPAT family. An exhausting but very rewarding experience.”
Photos – Credit: The Park Academies Trust
