On 31 October, I’m leaving for my new adventure in France for a 3-month exchange program with the World Education Program (WEP). I’m staying in Rexpoëde, a charming Flemish village in northern France, just fifteen kilometres from Dunkirk and on the border of Belgium. I’ll be living with a volunteer host family and attending school alongside my host sister, fully immersing myself in a new culture.

While I’m incredibly excited to explore, meet new people, and experience daily life in France, I’m nervous about speaking a foreign language, starting at a new school, and adjusting to life with people I’ve never met before.

During my time in France, I hope to learn about the country’s rich and complex history, especially its role in World War II, since my village and the surrounding region played a significant role. Above all, I’m eager to improve my French through total immersion, enjoy the beautiful cities and cuisine, and take the opportunity to explore much of neighbouring Belgium as well.

Elsie Bales, Year 10