For more than 15 years, Haileybury’s French language immersion tours have given Year 8 students the opportunity to take their learning beyond the classroom and into the French-speaking world. Through visits to France, New Caledonia and Mauritius, students develop their language skills in authentic settings while gaining a deeper appreciation of the people, cultures and traditions shaping these diverse communities. During this time, more than 325 students have participated in these transformative experiences.
Year 8 Haileybury Pangea student Briony had the opportunity to meet other students from across Haileybury's four Melbourne campuses when she travelled on the French Language Tour to France.
The experience immersed students in daily life, enabling them to practise their French in real-world situations while discovering first-hand the value of learning a language beyond the classroom.
Briony chose to join the French immersion program because of her love for the language and French culture.
“Before the trip I did not have any expectations about France because I wanted to experience everything with an open mind,” she said. “It was so interesting to learn about French history. Visiting Mont St Michel was a highlight, and I found it fascinating to learn how medieval buildings were built.”
The tour offered an exciting mix of cultural, historical and contemporary experiences. From iconic Paris landmarks and wartime historical sites to exploring medieval towns such as Rouen, visiting the famous Le Mans circuit and enjoying a day at Parc Asterix, students experienced many different aspects of French life and culture.
“We went to Le Mans which was a really interesting experience and something I would never have chosen to do,” Briony said. “But the moment I’ll never forget was visiting the iconic Eiffel Tower.”
Briony also enjoyed the challenge of navigating Paris, particularly using the Metro train system, a challenge she thoroughly enjoyed.
“I loved making friends with students from other campuses,” she said. “We also really enjoyed shopping at Galleries Lafayette because you can see all the different styles of clothing and the latest French fashions.”
Another French way of life that intrigued Briony was the country’s approach to food and dining.
“The most surprising thing about France for me was the meal etiquette and how people in France enjoy slower, more leisurely meals,” she said. “If I could go back tomorrow, I would go straight to a boulangerie and get a croissant.”
Haileybury Head of Middle School French, Monsieur Ravin Fowdar, says one of the most rewarding aspects of these tours is seeing students grow in confidence, independence and resilience as they step outside their comfort zones.
“It is incredibly rewarding to see students embrace new cultures, practise their French in real-life situations, build friendships across our campuses and return home with unforgettable memories and a greater appreciation of the world.”
For Briony, her French experience has sparked an interest in learning and exploring more of the world.
“The trip has inspired me to learn more about European countries and culture, and I am excited about future opportunities to travel,” she said.
For students considering participating in this tour in future years, she says, “Go for it! It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet new people, experience another culture and practice your French.”
