MORE than 20 pupils from Tameside enjoyed a memorable trip to Montigny-le-Bretonneux, Denton’s twin town in France, as part of a long-running international school exchange.
The children, all from St John Fisher RC Primary School in Denton, took part in a range of cultural and educational activities during the visit, helping to strengthen ties between the two towns.
Pupils spent a day in lessons at École Paul Verlaine, gaining a first-hand insight into French school life, and enjoyed a day exploring the sights and culture of Paris.
For many of the children, it was their first time travelling abroad, their first experience of a different language and culture, and an opportunity to form new friendships across borders.
Angela Taylor, teacher at St John Fisher School and member of the Denton Town Twinning Association, said:
“This exchange gives our pupils a chance to step outside their day-to-day lives and see the world in a new way. The impact on their confidence, curiosity and independence is incredible.
“One of the highlights was when the children went in to French families for dinner. They came back full of stories of kindness and hospitality, thrilled with their independent adventure!”
The partnership has been running for over 15 years with hundreds of local children taking part in the exchange over the years.
While this visit was the final exchange with École Paul Verlaine, which is due to close this week, plans are already under way to build a new school link in Montigny for the future.
Denton has been twinned with Montigny-le-Bretonneux, near Paris, since 1992 and Kierspe in Germany, since 2012.
Denton Town Twinning is a volunteer-led organisation that promotes friendship, cultural exchange and international understanding. It’s all about people – not politics – and everyone is welcome to get involved.
For more information, contact: info@dentontwinning.co.uk