We welcomed our partner class of CE2-CM1 kids to the lycée today. They arrived in time for a picnic lunch, had a guided tour of the school and then played some games with my 1STMG students before leaving to go back their school.

It was an amazing visit. The close bonds between the generations was touching to see. The older kids were very protective of the younger ones and very caring and attentive. The little ones obviously felt so grown up, being in the lycée. They were so excited at everything they saw. my interactive white board just blew them away!! A lab colleague showed some of them round the science labs. Wow ! A Spanish colleague welcomed some into her lesson. And a group that was visiting the Lycée Pro were given a go on the soap production machine, coming away with some bars of soap as a souvenir. Thanks to those colleagues. None of that was planned in advance – just some spontaneous gestures of kindness and availability that are so appreciated.

The CE2-CM1 kids had prepared some songs to sing for us. They then taught my pupils the songs. Seeing my older kids, usually so cool and image-conscious, joining in with Heads Shoulders Knees and Toes – that has to be one of my highlights of the year !!

During the games session, we wanted to introduce some questions based on telling the time. My 1STMG kids began to panic – we all know that telling the time is one of their weak points. The CE2-CM1 kids were being reassuring, saying they would help the older ones out !! Ha ha !!

It was a great visit. Having little kids around, so natural and innocent, makes you go back the basics of what school, learning and education shold be all about. Thanks to Karine, the class teacher and to all her pupils for thier infectious enthusiasm. And thanks to my 1STMG class – for following me in this wacky project, but one which will remain with us all for a very long time.