Calasanctius College in Oranmore recently welcomed students and teachers from Lycée des Graves in Gradignan, Bordeaux to the school last month.
The visit took place on Thursday, April 23 and marked the beginning of a promising link between the two schools, offering students an opportunity to connect through language, music, and shared cultural experiences. The morning began with a lively welcome ceremony in the Nano Nagle Hall.
Principal Mr Niall Kelly addressed the gathering in both French and English. Music played a central role in the celebrations, with traditional Irish tunes performed by student musicians, accompanied by Irish dancing that gave the visitors a taste of the local culture.
One of the big highlights was a spirited rendition of Santiano, performed jointly by Calasanctius fifth-year French students and their visitors, followed by a rousing group performance of The Fields of Athenry. The morning also featured a performance of Zombie by The Cranberries, alongside an energetic presentation of An Dreoilín, which saw French students enthusiastically joining in with their Irish hosts.
Students then took part in informal group discussions and cheerful conversation sharing insights into school life, hobbies, sport, and the similarities and differences between Ireland and France. The conversations flowed easily, even among students meeting for the first time. Guests were treated to a selection of refreshments, including homemade cakes, soda bread, scones, and smoked salmon.
Following the ceremony, the visiting group toured the school and joined classes to experience a typical Irish school day. They also had the opportunity to try their hand at hurling, most of them receiving first time introduction to one of Ireland’s most iconic sports.
The visit, led by Madame Florence Racinais and her group of 27 students, proved a highly positive and memorable experience for all involved. It not only allowed students to practise language skills in a real-world setting but also ensured that the visitors left Oranmore with a lasting impression of Irish hospitality—truly reflecting the school’s motto, Noblesse Oblige.
