In March 2024, we hosted our partner school, Victor Drury from Paris, for the week. Throughout the academic year, we exchanged video calls, Christmas cards, and some work asking each other questions about our lives.
We were very excited for this visit, with a focus on the Paralympics and the Special Olympics due to Paris hosting the Olympics this summer.
First Day
The students arrived very excited for the day ahead. We first had a talk about our school and then had a tour of the site. They spent time in the Blue Ceramics clay session, a business run within the school by the 6th form students. Our partners joined in and made a ceramic toadstool.
We then went to a KS4 class and helped make pizza bases for our lunch. We each made our own pizzas and had some time for fun games over lunch.
In the afternoon, we walked to our primary site, had a tour, and spent time in a KS1 class. Upon returning to our secondary school site, we had a sign language lesson, learning the alphabet, how to introduce ourselves, and some sentences.
Second Day
The morning was spent learning the rules of wheelchair basketball and playing it, which was enjoyable and competitive. This was followed by a Boccia tournament, where we taught the rules and played against each other. For lunch, we showcased our onsite 6th form-run restaurant, serving traditional bangers and mash and chocolate concrete with pink custard. The feedback was positive, especially about the Yorkshire pudding.
After lunch, we played basketball before the afternoon session of orienteering with a KS3 class, splitting into teams and searching for needed items. In the evening, we had a social night, including bowling and a traditional English meal of fish and chips.
Third Day
The morning started with a circle time with a PMLD class, followed by a water polo game in the hydrotherapy pool, which was fun and competitive. We then watched sensory learners participate in their special Olympics.
In the afternoon, we toured the old town of York with a company, learning about its history and seeing many historic sites.
Final Day
On the last morning, mini cafes were set up for different class groups to say goodbye to the French students. They enjoyed cake and hot chocolate, exchanged gifts, received Eiffel Tower keyrings, and gave Hull chip spice in return.
Throughout the week, the students interacted with various age groups and abilities, gaining a better understanding of special educational needs and relating learning to the Paralympics and Special Olympics. Everyone had great feedback and an enjoyable time.
