A FRENCH elective class from Taree High School is planning a trip to New Caledonia in December that will immerse them in the culture and language they have been studying.
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"As far as we know, no group from this school has ever been over before," said teacher Cathy Bielby.
The years nine and 10 students hope to take part in a tour between December 10 and 17 with GET Educational Tours, a school tour provider, which will be curriculum-based with lessons as well as experiencing French language and culture in everyday real world use.
Cathy has previously taken a group from Wingham High, and she herself took part when she was a student at Chatham High School, and speaks highly of the experience.
In an effort to fund their trip, the students will undertake fundraising and plan on approaching local community members and businesses for support, as well as running raffles and other activities.
Cathy said the cost is about $1500 for each student, which covers meals, breakfast, accommodation and sight-seeing.
Eight students at minimum would be needed to make the trip viable.
The class say the trip is a "once in a lifetime opportunity", a "great adventure", and will give many new experiences (some students have never been on a plane before).
The students will have the chance to attend the big markets, meet native New Caledonians, go to an island where the locals put on a hangi, learn to dance in the traditional way, and experience the country's food.
Some parents also plan to go along.
