Tea in Avignon

During February Half Term I had the fantastic opportunity to go to France on a week of work experience, supported by the Boyse Educational Foundation. The location was Avignon in the south of France and the trip was organised by Halsbury Travel solely for A-Level language students. I knew that it would be a worthwhile week, but I did not realise just how much I would learn in that short space of time.

My work placement was in a ‘Salon de Thé,’ the French equivalent of a tea room, in the centre of Avignon. The proprietor, Dominique, did not speak a word of English but this turned out to be a major bonus, as not only was it necessary for me to speak French the whole time I was working there, but I also learnt how to express myself even if I did not know the precise vocabulary, using other words to describe what I was trying to say.

At the shop Dominique had over 80 different varieties of tea, all of which were in leaf form - certainly no tea bags! The types included various black, green and ‘blue’ teas which all had unique flavours. I have to admit that my personal favourite was the ‘thé au chocolat,’ which had the most amazing

chocolate aftertaste, but unfortunately so far we have been unsuccessful in our search to find something similar here in rural Warwickshire!

My roles in the tea shop included communicating with the customers, brewing the tea in Dominique's very exacting way and making cakes and biscuits to be served alongside the tea, many containing tea leaves themselves! The conversations with customers and Dominique were of great benefit to my language skills, most notably speaking and listening.

However, it was not only during the working day at the shop that my French improved considerably. Being out and about in Avignon, surrounded by the French, also helped a great deal. Ordering in restaurants, talking to other guests in the accommodation, purchasing items in local shops - all of these factors had a positive effect. Also, simply listening to the French, overhearing conversations (and occasional heated discussions!) gave us an ear for the language and made understanding French a lot more natural.

Consequently, the trip was an amazing experience with countless benefits for my French studies, both in terms of language and having a greater understanding of the French culture. Therefore, I would like to thank the Boyse Educational Foundation for their contribution to the week; it really was a great opportunity that has aided my French A-Level no end.

Elizabeth Cawthorn

THE BOYSE FOUNDATION

The Boyse Educational Foundation was founded in the 18th Century by the Rev'd Richard Boyse to aid young people to further their education (in its widest sense) and also to promote children's physical health. To qualify for a grant you should be under 18, in full time education and resident in Wellesbourne. Grants have been made in the past for various trips abroad, for play school equipment and other special educational trips including a Tall Ships sailing adventure.

You will have read of many more in this paper recently because people going on these trips are invited to share their experiences.

You can make an application at any time to either the Vicar or Churchwardens. (Ed)