shhs magazine - South Hampstead High School

SHHS Interiors:Layout 1 19/06/2011 11:31 Page 21Year 9 Loire Valley trip, April 2011We had a lovely time again in the Loire Valley withthe sun shining every day, and the French countryside,rivers and gardens looking so beautiful. We visitedlots of castles beginning with C: Chenonceau,Chinon, Chambord and Cheverny: respectively, thewomen’s palace, Joan of Arc’s fortress, the SunKing’s huge hunting lodge, and the setting for a fewTintin adventures… We bought fruit and presentsin the market at Chinon, went on the river atCheverny, tasted wine at the Nitray vineyards, andwondered what a novice’s life was like atFontevraud Abbey. The French families were mostwelcoming, and we acquired some new phrases. Agood time was had by all!Ms. L Raitz, Head of FrenchSpanish Exchange 2010It was a pleasure to accompany the girls to Spainlast year. As a teacher of Spanish, it was wonderfulto witness their efforts in practising their Spanish atevery opportunity given to them either during theSpanish lessons, or with the Spanish families theystayed with and at the different places we went to.I enjoyed watching how stunned they were by thewonderful cities of Granada and Cordoba, especially,their two landmarks, La Alhambra and LaMezquita.It was also worth observing their first stepsinto the world of flamenco as well as their enjoymentwhen visiting the beautiful typical Andalusiantown of Mijas or the interesting marine world ofSea Life.Not only did they improve their Spanish, butthey also opened their minds to another world, andother habits of living and eating.Mr M Smeaton, Head of SpanishLower Sixth French Work ExperienceExchange 2010 and 2011In March 2010, Lower Sixth French students travelledto Paris for the annual exchange with theLycée Charlemagne, combined with work experience.The schools, galleries, restaurants, theatres,museums, boutiques and chemists held some surprisesthis year. When Gérard Depardieu arrived atthe Musée de la Halle Saint-Pierre for an interviewon his new film, Lydia P and Sophie R were thrilledto be photographed with him. Meanwhile, Tammy Precorded the second highest number of sales at thechildren’s boutique DPAM, beating experiencedassistants and earning the highest praise from themanageress.This year saw a new placement. Amy B, ahorse lover, was in her element at a riding schoolnear the Bois de Vincennes, particularly in the gloriousweather which we enjoyed during the trip. Shefreely admitted that she would have hated to bestuck in an office or a shop! As usual, girls enjoyedthe independence of living as a Parisian young adult.Gaby M, who wants to become a doctor, andworked in a pharmacy, said: “Although difficult attimes, overall it was a great experience. I learnt agreat deal about the French medical system andafter communicating onlyin French for at least sixhours a day, for five days,my French improvedconsiderably. I also feltso mature, leaving mypartner’s house in themorning, travelling on themétro and meetingfriends for a drink in acafé after work.”Amy et un cheval, Bois deVincennes, 20112009-2011 School Magazine 21