The exchange provided students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in French culture while learning about the shared history connecting the two communities.
The trip coincided with the purchase of 16 La Rue Verte in Masnieres, where Guernseymen sheltered and held the line in 1917. Students held a minute’s silence and laid a wreath in remembrance.
‘It’s been interesting to see the RGLI connection with the twinning of the towns,’ said Les Beaucamps High teacher Suzanne Mather.
‘The students are getting to understand why we are twinned with Masnieres and where their ancestors have been.’
Throughout the week, students stayed with host families, attended school with their French counterparts, and took part in educational and cultural activities.
They visited an archaeological site, a tank museum and a British military cemetery, reflecting on wartime sacrifices and links between Guernsey and northern France.
They also travelled to Ypres in Belgium to attend the Last Post ceremony at the Menin Gate.
‘This is the fourth year of the exchange, which began thanks to Chris Oliver from the RGLI,’ said Christelle Guedin, teacher at Jacques Prevert School.
She said the aims were educational, linguistic and commemorative, with 24 French pupils taking part this year.
‘It is a wonderful opportunity. The links between the two communities are becoming stronger, and with the purchase of the house they will be strengthened even more.’
Students also enjoyed bowling and shopping, helping them build friendships and experience everyday life in France.
Blanchelande College teacher Belinda Davis said it was ‘a fantastic opportunity for our students to meet their French counterparts’, adding that the cultural and social interaction had been enjoyed by all.
The students seemed to share that sentiment.
Mikaela Govender said the trip had been ‘a very enjoyable experience’ and she had learnt a lot about French culture. Erin Cullwick said it had been ‘very interesting to live in a French person’s house and go to school with them’, while Eve de la Rue said it was ‘cool to see different cultures and the way they live’.
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