Earlier this year, the Oakland Foundation was delighted to support Ipsley School’s French Trip, helping to remove financial barriers and ensure all students had the opportunity to take part.
The trip supported their studies while broadening their understanding of the world, different cultures, and new experiences. It was especially heartwarming to receive three lovely letters from students thanking the Foundation for making the trip possible. Their kind words are a wonderful reminder of the positive impact that access to educational opportunities can have on young people’s lives.
Student Letters:
Dear Oakland,
Thank you so much for helping me go to France. We could never have paid for this trip, so I am really grateful and my family are really proud of me. It was the first time I had ever been abroad and I was nervous but excited. I practised my French every day — I said bonjour and merci in the market and understood everything the baker said when he taught us to make bread. I was really worried to start off with but I feel really proud that I understood it all. I made new friends, put myself out of my comfort zone and had so much fun. I will always remember this trip because it gave me confidence and new memories.
From S (Year 7)
Dear Oakland,
When Miss Miller announced the French trip, I really wanted to go. My mom was really worried and said I couldn’t because my family couldn’t afford it. Then Miss Miller and Mrs Curtis told me that you were helping us so it made a big difference. It was my first time abroad and some places we visited really impacted me — walking through the V2 bunker and the World War Two museum felt powerful and deep. Seeing real places from our history lessons taught me so much about what people lived through. We’re doing World War 2 next year too so I think it will be really helpful. I think I want to do History for GCSE now too. As well as the serious visits we relaxed on the beach, played football and laughed together. Travelling through different towns showed me new ways of life, and I even practised speaking French with locals which felt awkward but fun. I made new friends I wouldn’t have met otherwise and I’m proud I pushed myself beyond my comfort zone. I’m even in the same form as some of them next year so it’s nice to have a friendly face!
From H (Year 7)
Dear Oakland,
I wouldn’t have been able to go to France and have the best trip of my life without you. Everything was new because it’s the first time I’ve been away from home. My favourite thing was the market because I could buy a souvenir for my mom and dad and I got to speak some French to the lady. I tried really hard! The snail farm was funny and gross— I even tried three snails! They were slimy but just tasted like garlic bread. My friend let a snail stick to her cheek! I learnt about another culture, made new friends from different classes and had so much fun trying new foods and places. My family really needed this so I’ll never forget it.
From L (Year 7)