History, Gastronomy and Art in Paris

Published on isbi School News dated Friday 10th of January 2014

Over Christmas, twenty three Upper Sixth Form Oundle School pupils participated in the annual History study visit to Paris.

In addition to the castles of Fontainebleau and Versailles, the group visited the Louvre, the Musee d'Orsay, Musee de l'Armee at the Invalides, as well as the Conciergerie and Sainte Chapelle on the �le de la Cité. Pupils were guided by teachers around the numerous quartiers in Paris, and introduced to the city's gastronomic delights.

Historian, Rosie Vince (17) commented, 'One of the best things about the History trip to Paris was just how busy it was and how much we fitted in. From Notre-Dame to Versailles we covered centuries of the city's history with lectures from our teachers, Mr Mather and Dr von-Habsburg. Always enthusiastic they knew everything about the places we were visiting, and we would all sit engaged by their great enthusiasm, whether we were perched on the steps of Napoleon's Mausoleum or outside the gate of Versailles.

Everybody had their own favourite moment, and mine was wondering around Le Louvre. The gallery has a wealth of art and history, from ancient Egypt to the Renaissance. You could sit in front of famous Greek sculptures and within minutes be gazing at the Mona Lisa; it was amazing to see so much in just one afternoon.

What made the trip though were the people on it, both teachers and pupils. Everyone was so interested and cheerful the entire week. The atmosphere was always hugely positive and energetic.'

History teacher and trip organiser, Dr von Habsburg commented, 'The Upper Sixth History trip to Paris provides an opportunity for pupils to immerse themselves in the culture, history, art and gastronomy of this famous city. We are hugely grateful to former History teacher, Mr Mather, whose wealth of knowledge of the area and enthusiasm for its history made for an extremely interesting and entertaining trip."