Alsace Trip Creates Lasting Memories
Just before the October half-term, a group of Y8 and Y9 students visited the Alsace region of France and had an amazing time soaking up the life and culture there. Following on from the trip, Mr Cook kindly put together a video tour, and Finley in Y9 wrote an amazing article about his experiences. We’ve reproduced edited highlights from Finley’s article below – thank you Finley!:
Wow! During this trip to Alsace, I have gained and developed my skills, not only in language, but across the board. The trip provided countless opportunities for growth in maturity, confidence and cultural understanding. Each day of the trip was skilfully and meticulously organised to best suit the group and our time in France.
On Sunday, after hasty goodbyes, the buzz on the coaches lingered momentarily, despite tiredness, eventually dying to just the soothing lull of the wheels on tarmac. Everyone seized the chances to sleep on the coach, given the journey ahead.
To reach Alsace, a region on the border of France and Germany, we travelled through France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, and finally, back to France, appreciating petit slices of Europe’s culture and architecture en route.
Tea produced a superlative opportunity for refuelling and reflection. Food was plentiful, only the clanking of cutlery on plates and attendance of the friendly catering staff could be heard, soft murmurs of approval rippled through the dining rooms. Similar sounds of audible approval could be heard when desserts were distributed. Throughout the trip, mealtimes granted meaningful interactions and conversations concerning the day’s earlier activities and those happening the following day.
Tuesday, we visited Cathédrale de Notre Dame de Strasbourg, Strasbourg Historical Museum, La Petite France (similar to the shambles in York), a vast, picturesque park, a scenic river cruise through Strasbourg and finally, the European Parliament. Tuesday delivered centuries worth of information about Strasbourg and the Alsace region and our first interactions with its people. Each conversation built confidence as we embraced the culture and the beautiful language. Snippets of free time in Strasbourg allowed significant time for shopping, eating and exploration within the clearly illustrated boundaries of the town.
The architecture and buildings of the town were gorgeous, and life flowed through the sun-lit cobbled streets. We had the opportunity to listen to a range of EU Politicians debating the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, in the parliament chamber.
After a full night’s sleep (supposedly) and breakfast, we were on the coaches to the theme park. Reaching Europa Park, it was apparent the sheer size and effort used to create such a place, displaying some twenty European countries and the blueprints and early designs, later developed into colossal successes at similarly renowned theme parks like Disney.
Together the rides, architecture and scenery were exceptional, and the entire day was astounding. Most people had managed to indulge in the small pockets of each European country; personal favourites included Greece, France, Scandinavia and Germany.
Suddenly, everyone was back to the meeting point and after a quick photo opportunity (see Malton socials), we were back on the coaches. Conversations raving about the day were rife and the ping of phones receiving hundreds of photos taken in the park was continuous and familiar mice mascot souvenirs were showcased.
Thursday begrudgingly proposed the final day of activities in Alsace, the week had slipped away, unbeknownst to us. First, was a visit to the region’s Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg. The castle is perched on top of a hill flanked by astoundingly autumnal coloured trees, painted across a breath-taking landscape. Our next destination was Colmar, a beautiful town in Alsace. During this free time, we traversed the tranquil town, shopping in recognisable shops like Sephora and some smaller Alsatian stores. After two hours of exploration, demolishing of packed lunches, shopping and endless funny moments, we regrouped and walked a short distance to Colmar’s chocolate museum.
In the museum, we learnt about the history of chocolate, the various processes and most importantly, had free rein over the numerous chocolate samples throughout. Occasions for photos and memories were plentiful. The gift shop brought a good half-hour of browsing, shopping and consumption of chocolate. A mass success!
I was very reflective on the coach; the skills I had developed; the memories and confidence I had gained from the trip; the togetherness of our school. I pondered meaningfully for a while at how, some hundreds of miles away from Malton School, we retained our key values and executed them when most crucial.
Support- Vital when in a foreign country, supporting our peers and staff and ensuring we support each other when challenged and outside of our comfort zone, like a week away from home.
Inspire- Leading yourself to make the correct decisions, allowing yourself to be an example for all, changing that stereotypical depiction of English tourists, representing our school and our country, in the best possible light. Inspiring others to act appropriately.
Thrive- Enjoying your time and creating memories with your peers that will last a lifetime. Thriving in your youth.
This year’s trip to Alsace was absolutely outstanding. I want to strongly thank the brilliant staff team on the trip and everyone behind the scenes who made the trip possible. The biggest thank you to Miss Crozier for organising the whole trip and constructing the best experiences in Alsace.
Special thanks to everyone on the trip for making it so exceptional and memorable! I am truly astounded!
