French language trip broadens horizons for Willows High pupils
In June 2025, Willows High School, took twenty pupils aged 13–15 and three staff members to Nantes to participate in a cultural and linguistic exchange with Collège Victor Hugo. For several pupils, this was their first time travelling abroad. Although the visit focused on developing language skills, the experience offered far wider personal, social and educational benefits.
Joanne Brace and Myriam Vrigneau’s from Willows’ French Department who organised the trip with support from International Links Global, reflect on the exchange and the impact it had on the pupils and the school community.
The primary aims were to provide pupils studying French with an authentic and immersive experience in Nantes. We wanted them to develop their language skills, deepen their cultural understanding and appreciate both the differences and the commonalities between life in Wales and France. For many pupils, this was their first time travelling abroad, so it was also about broadening horizons, building confidence and helping them form meaningful connections with their French peers.
Our preparation focused on ensuring every pupil felt supported and ready. In French lessons, we practised practical language relevant to the trip. We also held a detailed briefing for pupils and families to explain what to expect, reduce anxiety and answer questions.
A key component was making the trip fully inclusive. 35% of our pupils on this mobility came from disadvantaged backgrounds so we had confidential conversations with families to explain that Taith funding could cover passports, visas, luggage or any other essential cost. This ensured no pupil missed out because of financial barriers.
Upon arriving in Nantes, the pupils’ first impressions were profound, particularly for those experiencing travel abroad for the first time.
For many, the journey itself, flying and navigating airports, was exciting and completely new. Any tiredness disappeared when they stepped out into the hot Nantes climate. The sights, sounds and atmosphere felt different straight away, and pupils quickly realised they were experiencing something special.
Pupil RO:
My experience at the French school was amazing …It was incredible to see people living their everyday lives in French, and it’s made me feel excited and more determined to keep learning the language
One of the most memorable aspects was the strength of the friendships formed with pupils at Collège Victor Hugo. Evening meals, outdoor games, dancing, singing and relaxed time with boarding students created powerful moments that pupils still talk about. These spontaneous connections will stay with them for a lifetime.
The experience not only advanced their linguistic skills but also built their overall confidence and ability to work as part of a team. Travelling, navigating new places and adapting to a different school environment strengthened their independence and resilience. Pupils grew more self-assured simply by stepping outside their comfort zones and managing new situations.
One pupil asked the French school’s headteacher about the possibility of returning to study there in the future, especially as it is a boarding school where that would be possible.
Pupil AN:
It gives me an idea of the pathway I would like to take for my future since I am interested in languages and travelling, giving me a completely different aspect of life.
There has been a noticeable increase in enthusiasm for French among pupils who took part, reflected in a threefold rise in French GCSE uptake compared with last year, something we directly attribute to the impact of the exchange.
Pupil SA:
Taith has made an impact not just on me but everyone else who participated. I never actually heard French paragraphs and conversations, and I just fell in love with the language, and I hope to continue learning French.
There have also been discussions on incorporating new teaching methods. The language staff involved plan to introduce more speaking-focused activities into French lessons, particularly those encouraging peer discussion, mirroring the kinds of interactions pupils enjoyed during the exchange. The success of the exchange has also led to increased senior leadership support for the languages department.
Parent feedback was overwhelmingly positive. They praised the organisation, value and overall experience extremely highly. Many commented that the visit boosted their child’s enthusiasm for French, created lasting friendships with French pupils and provided unforgettable memories. Several shared that their children would “love to go back again.”
Taith funding was essential. Without it, the visit could not have taken place.
The funding made the exchange fully accessible by covering essential costs for families who otherwise would not have been able to participate. It also enabled Willows High School to establish and strengthen a meaningful partnership with Collège Victor Hugo, ensuring long-term benefits for future cohorts.
