Brussels, Bruges and Broadcasting

As part of the Comenius Radionet project, Sarah Fitzpatrick, Gerard Mollaghan and their French Teacher Mrs.Earley travelled to Belgium in March, to represent our school and country at the Annual International Class which was held this year in Soignies, near Brussels.

Over  5 days they engaged in various activities together with   students and teachers from all the partner countries, France , Germany, Luxembourg, Spain, Romania, Turkey and of course Belgium.

As well as working on Broadcasts in English and French, and an on-line quiz, the groups had time to visit different places in Belgium.

On the first evening there was a civic reception in the town hall of Soignies, where the Assistant Mayor greeted each delegation in their native language. He presented everyone with a  souvenir of their visit .

The group were taken on a tour of Brussels where the visited the European Parliament and the Atomium where they had lunch, while enjoying spectacular views of the city.

Another highlight of the trip was a guided tour of the largest limestone quarry in Europe in Haiwault, where everyone had to wear protective clothing while visiting the site.

While in school the students worked in groups with nationalities and it was a great experience trying to communicate in French, English and even sign language, when all else failed!

The final day was spent in the beautiful town of Bruges, which is known as the Venice of the North, and Ostende. Another  beautiful city on the sea.

Commenting on the experience Sarah and Gerard said that it was really worthwhile and educational. They appreciated the value of learning French and also were proud to be able to speak in Irish when required.