Pleasingly, everyone was able to rest well after Monday’s travel and even more pleasingly, we were gifted with glorious sunshine on a sunny yet brisk Tuesday morning. Baguettes, chocolat chaud and cereal were enjoyed as everyone slowly but surely woke up, ready for the day ahead.
At 9am, we hopped onto our respective coaches and began the 1.5 hour journey through the idyllic French countryside to the historic cultural city of Rouen.
Rouen – home to the Notre Dame of Rouen and the location where Joan of Arc was so dramatically executed. Just strolling along the cobbled streets it was impossible not to soak up the French culture and beauty around us.
Joan of Arc Church
We visited to the impressive Joan of Arc Church, built in a modern nautical style and stood in the shadows of the cross that marked the point where she was so brutally burnt at the stake in 1431. Hearing of her heroism and dedication to her cause – God and France – we entered the church with a sense of awe. The inclusive layout and stunning designs inside created an air of peace as we all reflected on her role in France’s history and for women today.
Shopping
There was greatly received time to explore the consumerist elements of the city too as children, and adults, explored the creperies, cafes, ice cream parlours and much more. Parents, we hope they found room in their wallets to thank you for giving them this opportunity – they certainly found funding for some sweets at the very least!
The Cathedral Nortre Dame de Rouen
As impressive as the more famous Notre Dame of Paris, Rouen’s cathedral towers over the city with its 151 metre high spire believed to bring those who built it, and worship there, closer to God. Just looking at the outside of the building and its many stages of construction was mind-boggling to consider the architectural triumph standing in front of us. Inside, the wonder continued. Beautifully designed stain glass windows and statues of the patron saints were just two marvels to behold.
The Ossuary of Saint-Maclou
Visiting this burial ground for those whose lives were lost to the Great Plague was quite incredible. Only last year, when the last group visited, archaeologists were digging up bones of humans,and even animals, of those who died in the 14th Century. As we studied the bones and skulls on display in the building work – reminders of this gruesome past – we began to look more closely at the ground below. Low and behold, discoveries were made. “Could I get sick from holding this?” Rishi and Oscar queried, happy with their historic finds yet equally cautious about their discoveries. “Probably not,” Mrs Zawada replied.
Down Time
Despite enjoying every aspect of our cultural and historic tour of Rouen, we were all revealed to relax in the comfort of our coaches. Toy Story 3 and Paul Blart: Mall Cop soon soothed many into a well-deserved nap. Arriving back at our home for the week, it was time for showers, lie downs, games in the sun and a coffee for adults.
Dinner was another dive into French cuisine, including: turkey, potatoes, green beans and mushroom sauce followed by an apple pastry. It doesn’t take long for 11 year olds to recharge their batteries! Raring to go, we partook in those activities from last night which each group didn’t have the chance to try yet – fencing, archery and min-Olympics. At 9.30am everyone went to their rooms top prepare for the first room inspections of the week.
It has been another great day. (Please try and view the blog on a computer. The photos should look a lot better than on phones.)
St Mary's CE Primary School Year 6 France 2019 
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