76 Year 9 students from Honiton Community College (HCC) have returned from Paris after a whirlwind adventure packed with iconic sights, shared challenges, and unforgettable memories.

Accompanied by seven dedicated staff members, the students took part in a five-day tour that included visits to the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, Sacré Coeur and Montmartre, the Louvre, and a relaxing river cruise through the heart of the city. The trip was topped off with a full day at Disneyland Paris and a cultural dive into a traditional French hypermarket.

The school, which is part of the Ted Wragg Trust, would like to say a massive thank you, or merci, to language teacher Lisa Cooper, the staff lead behind this extraordinary experience. Her meticulous planning, care, and commitment made the adventure possible.

Importantly, the Jack Riley Trust provided generous support to ensure that disadvantaged students could take part in the trip. Thanks to this and the school’s own efforts, all families requiring financial assistance were supported, without the need for additional fundraising.

On the Saturday morning, students braved long queues and scorching sunshine at the Eiffel Tower, where many demonstrated great determination walking up to the viewing platforms. That same day, after enjoying a scenic boat cruise along the Seine, the group narrowly missed a dramatic hailstorm, which began just after they boarded the coach.

Although poor weather on Saturday prevented students from swimming as planned, spirits remained high and they were able to enjoy pool time on Sunday instead. That evening brought new experiences for many, including tasting snails, met with a variety of reactions, and dancing the night away at a lively disco. For those who preferred a quieter evening, a friendly game of football rounded off the day.

Another memorable moment came on Sunday when the Champs-Elysées Avenue was completely car-free, offering students the rare and surreal experience of walking straight up the centre of the iconic road toward the Arc de Triomphe. This pedestrian initiative occurs just once a month and added a truly unique twist to the trip. 

The trip was not only a cultural and educational success, but also a powerful opportunity for students to grow in confidence, independence, and resilience. Honiton Community College is proud of the way its students represented the school, and themselves, throughout this memorable adventure.

Caroline Brothwood, Headteacher at Honiton Community College said:

 "This trip represents everything we value at Honiton – opportunity, culture, and confidence-building beyond the classroom. For our students to experience the Eiffel Tower, hear French spoken in real life and navigate a new city with their friends was incredibly powerful. I’m so proud of how our students represented the college – and so grateful to the staff, particularly Lisa Cooper, for making it all happen."

Moira Marder, CEO of the Ted Wragg Trust said:

 "Trips like this ignite curiosity and create lifelong memories. I’m thrilled to see Honiton Community College delivering rich, inclusive experiences that show students the world is theirs to explore.”