The long awaited return visit of the young French students from Douai took place last week, and the weather has been kind. There was almost no rain for the trip to Clonmacnois and the visit of Kilkenny and Cashel took place under blue skies. Along with their Irish partners, the French students enjoyed a train trip around Kilkenny and explored the medieval site on the Rock of Cashel. On Friday, they had spent some time in class and had a presentation on Transition Year in our school, something that does not exist in France. Sunday was a day spent with their Irish host families.
On Monday, the French youngsters were treated to a cookery demonstration of the traditional Irish breakfast, which was enthusiastically consumed on the spot. Many thanks to Marie Naughton and Miriam Keaney, who donned their white coats again for the occasion. In the afternoon there was a demonstration of Irish dancing given by Jessica Rogers, Sinead McCarrick, Megan Slevin, Karen Garvey, Amy Dolan, Catriona Gilligan, Amy Slevin and Therese O’Reilly. This was very impressive and was captured on the visitors’ mobile phones. A sports tournament rounded off the afternoon activities. The final event was the traditional barbecue in Walesch’s in Killinure – an evening that is always a huge success. Our thanks to Geraldine and Mannfred who have always been generous hosts.
The exchange was a great success in that the French students were treated to a close look at school in Ireland, as well as having an introduction to many aspects of our culture. This couldn’t have taken place without the co-operation of the host families and in particular, Sister Eileen, who hosted seven girls in the boarding school. Many thanks to all involved.
