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Original poster

Foreign Exchange Visits

56 replies

Sparklingbrook · 07/11/2013 09:47

Are they important? Do you have to have one if your child is studying the language and it is offered?
If DS doesn't do it will he be the only one?

OP posts:
Original poster
Sparklingbrook · 07/11/2013 09:59

Yes, that's the sort Big. i think DS1 like the idea of it but the reality may not be great.

I have heard a few scary stories of sullen foreign teenagers that don't want to do anything, and the language barrier being quite stressful for the other family members.

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Original poster
Sparklingbrook · 07/11/2013 09:57

Thanks Loopa. I think a family discussion needs to be had. it's not until next summer but the school want the deposit etc.

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BigBoobiedBertha · 07/11/2013 09:56

Yes, agree. I did it as a teenager, it was the only residential trip I did as it was relatively cheap. I assume you mean the type of exchange where you go and live with a French family and their child comes back to stay with you?

I wouldn't say it is important as such - you wouldn't be a failure at French if you didn't do it - but it is a brilliant opportunity. It isn't just about the language but being able immerse yourself in real French life rather than being a tourist.

I wouldn't have thought all the children do it. It is a big commitment in terms of money and also having a stranger to come and stay in your home for a week or whatever it is.

I think your DS should do it but I don't think he has to do it. I suspect plenty won't. There is a probably a limit imposed by the school too because the children have to chaperoned over the Channel like any other trip.

LoopaDaLoopa · 07/11/2013 09:55

Seriously, it's worth it.

Original poster
Sparklingbrook · 07/11/2013 09:52

Mmmm. I am having a wibble about it.

DS1 (14) is not the most confident and chatty of people and the thought of having a French student here for a week fills me with dread.

I don't think he will cope well at all staying with a host family in France for a week.

We don't have a spare bedroom and our house is quite compact.

It's £290

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LoopaDaLoopa · 07/11/2013 09:48

Massively useful for language learning. Very sadly not done much any more. Definitely, definitely should seize the opportunity if offered.