Latymer Upper School French Exchange

Before the half term Latymer Upper School was delighted to welcome students from École Alsacienne in Paris for the return leg of our French exchange program. The visiting students stayed with Latymer families for a week filled with cultural experiences, academic enrichment, and exciting excursions.

This exchange program, which began in the autumn when Latymer students visited Paris before the October half term, provides a fantastic opportunity for students to immerse themselves in each other’s language and culture.

After settling in with their host families over the weekend, the French students joined their Latymer partners on Monday for lessons, a school tour led by our School Captain, and an introduction to London’s history from our Head of History, Johnny White. The day concluded with a visit to the Sky Garden and a welcome tea in the Sixth Form common room.

Throughout the week, as well as immersing themselves into Latymer life through various lessons, the students also explored London’s rich heritage, from Tower Bridge to the Victoria and Albert Museum. A highlight of their stay was a full-day excursion to Cambridge on Wednesday. Thursday’s itinerary included a visit to the London Transport Museum, Emirates Stadium, and Piccadilly Circus

Here’s what some of our exchange students had to say: 

‘Having classes at Latymer School was great, the school was amazing, and the people were just as wonderful!’ – Adèle

‘I had an amazing time here in London. It was a truly enriching experience to discover the English school system from the inside and a student’s point of view. Latymer School is incredible and I think we could bring back many of its aspects back to the École Alsacienne. On the more cultural spectrum, I loved to discover each museum we visited specifically, but I think that my favourite was the V&A. It was really fun and interesting to discover many different aspects of London and many of its various boroughs, a thing that we do not have in Paris. Overall, I had a blast this week and a lovely time with Sylvie and her amazing family !’ –  Agathe 

‘I had a very good time in London ! Visiting the city was amazing and discovering the English education system at Latymer was the best ! All the students at Latymer were very nice and welcoming. I loved discovering the city and learning stories about some places. We had an amazing time in Cambridge. I loved discovering a new part of England and learning about its history. I had a very good time and loved this experience’ -Ella 

‘I really enjoyed the city and the school, particularly the colourful rooms, and the variety of sports and clubs !’ – Axelle 

It was a pleasure to host the exchange students, and the experience was truly enriching for everyone involved. A big thank you to all who contributed to making this program a great success!

Author: Sohni Malde