More than 100 children from three Swindon primary schools took part in an educational trip to Paris.

The pupils from Orchid Vale, Bridlewood, and Red Oaks primary schools went on the first combined overseas trip for the three schools.

The trip was to help the children develop their knowledge of modern languages and learn more about French culture.

The children visited the Eiffel Tower, had a tour around central Paris, a boat ride on the River Seine, and a day at Disneyland.

They also had a cooking class and learnt how to make crepes, with some of the bravest pupils and teachers even trying snails.

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The children had a chance to test their French language skills, get a wider appreciation of European culture, and make new friends across the TPAT family of schools.

Rachel Surch, director of primary at The Park Academies Trust, said: "This has been a fantastic trip, our biggest ever, and alongside the educational experiences there was so much excitement.

"There was a great sense of awe and wonder when the children saw the Eiffel Tower for the first time and seeing their faces when the Disney Parade started was just priceless.

"I’d like to thank all the amazing staff for their brilliant organisation and also our parents and carers for their generous support for the fundraising which allowed this memorable trip to go ahead."

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Geoff Bryan, from The Park Academies Trust, said: "It was a pleasure to accompany 102 children from across the TPAT Primary Schools on their PGL residential trip to Paris.

"All of the students and staff had a fantastic time, personal highlights were helping children conquer their fear of heights climbing the Eiffel Tower, and the pure joy and excitement of watching the Disney parade.

"The hard work by Mrs Surch in coordinating and organising the trip ensured that it was a huge success, with all staff thoroughly enjoying the experience, even if it did mean a little less sleep than usual."

Caroline Prictor, support staff at Orchid Vale Primary School, said: "Such a fantastic experience for the children, the opportunity to be away from their comfort zone, discovering a different country, language, food and culture.

"Being brave and trying new things encourages the development of life skills and independence.

"An exhausting but very rewarding experience."

Funding for the trip was boosted by pupils and staff from Red Oaks who cycled 320 miles, the equivalent of Swindon to Paris, in a sponsored race against Orchid Vale ahead of the start of the Olympic Games in July.

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