Hardelot - Day 1

Bonjour tout le monde!

We have arrived here in Hardelot after what the children called a VERY long journey - George specifically told us it was 8 hours and 35 minutes after we had set off from Shoreham!

After setting off on time, and not getting caught in traffic, we thought we were on our way and all was good.  However, Mrs Pape quickly remembered that a very important document had been left at school and we had to wait at a service station for Mrs Heuston to hand-deliver it to us.  It did, however, give the teachers a chance to get some much needed caffeine!

Once we were back on our way, we made good time.  Despite the many, many questions of 'How long until we get to the Eurotunnel?' (mentioning no names - Elise and Olly!) we arrived there relatively unscathed.  Bob, our trusty coach driver, even managed to persuade the nice French man to let us on an earlier train, so we left the UK at 10.50a.m. 

The journey through the tunnel was a very quick one and many of the children were fascinated by the fact that we were going under water.  Erin and Katie were particularly interested and one of them said, confused, "But I can't see any water out this window!"  This was quickly followed by a potted history of the Channel Tunnel!  A game of 'everyone-is-it' (don't ask!) kept the children amused long enough to make the journey a quick one, and we soon arrived on the other side.

Next stop was Vimy Ridge for a little bit of history and lunch.  The children showed a real interest in the war graves and were exceptionally respectful as we looked round.  They asked many questions and it led to some very thought-provoking questions.  As a staff, we were very, very proud of the children during this time.

After this, we set off for Hardelot - the bit the children had most been looking forward too.  The journey went on a little longer than expected and there were more cries of "How much longer?", this time from Luke and, yet again, Olly!  Mrs Pape and Miss Salmon may have possibly had a little nap at this point and left Mr Fuller to deal with the bored children!

Finally we arrived at the Hardelot Centre and the children were quick to settle into their rooms.  After a little bit of trouble making beds from *some* of the children, we went with Julien to have dinner.  This was very gladly received by all the children, most of which enjoyed all 4 courses!  There are some very bloated tummies this evening!

As I type, we are sat comfortably in the main house watching 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' (I promise I didn't force them!) and winding down before what is bound to be a nice, calm, restful night.....we can dream can't we?!

Signing off for now, will attempt to put the pictures on Flickr as well as a few on here and some on the school website too.

Miss Salmon, Mrs Pape, Mr Fuller & most of Cameron Class :-)