On Friday 31st March, 29 students and three staff members departed for Noumea, New Caledonia on the first French study tour since 2018. Students from Years 9 – 12 who study French were invited to experience language immersion and explore the French overseas territory located just 2.5 hours from Brisbane by plane.
The tour was a fantastic success. The itinerary included:
- A tour of the city on the Tchou Tchou Train
- Language lessons at CREIPAC
- Zoo visit
- Guided tour of the Tjibaou Cultural Centre
- Aquarium visit
- Watching the windsurfers
A huge highlight of the trip was our day trip to Amedée Island where we snorkelled with fish of every colour, coral, sea cucumbers and turtles. The island is home to many sea snakes which are venomous but not aggressive whilst on land. We were treated to an amazing island buffet and traditional dances (featuring Mrs Peters and Mr Tickner!).
We can’t forget the amazing food along the way. Every day, we had breakfast at the hotel buffet and were spoilt with dinner at a variety of local restaurants. Students ate baguette sandwiches, local seafood, pain au chocolat, macarons and much more.
Students made friends from local schools (and some other Australian students who were there at the same time!). They spoke in French to order food, buy gifts for friends and family and even started speaking French between themselves.
We’re so lucky to have had the opportunity to go with 29 amazing students and can’t wait for the next trip in 2026!
