Bressuire, France, Lycée Maurice Genevoix, 4-10 May 2025.

As part of the Erasmus+ accreditation program of “Mikes Kelemen” Theoretical High School in Sfântu Gheorghe, a group of 8 students and 2 accompanying teachers undertook a study visit to the town of Bressuire, France, during the period of May 4–10, 2025. The host institution was Lycée Maurice Genevoix, which, as a partner school, offered a comprehensive professional and cultural program for the participants.

The group arrived in France on May 4, landing at Nantes airport, from where they were transported by minibus and car to the town of Bressuire, where the host families were already waiting for them. Both students and teachers were accommodated with host families, which greatly contributed to their cultural integration and the development of their language skills.

The program began on Monday, May 5, at Lycée Maurice Genevoix, where the students, divided into groups, attended various classes, including French language, philosophy, history, social sciences, and foreign languages. In the afternoon, the students from Mikes presented their school, the city of Sfântu Gheorghe, and the Romanian educational system. These presentations played an important role in practicing the French language and facilitating cultural exchange.

On Tuesday morning, activities continued with class attendance and discussions with French teachers and students. The central event of the day was a visit to a contemporary art exhibition organized in the school’s multifunctional hall. Entitled Ondes sensibles: l’eau ("Sensitive Waves: Water"), the exhibition focused on environmental protection, emphasizing the human relationship with water. The aim of the exhibition was to raise young people's awareness of environmental issues and sensitize them to the concept of sustainability. In the afternoon, the students explored the historical landmarks of Bressuire, and in the evening, they attended a festive reception in the school canteen. The day concluded with a theater performance by French students – a remarkable experience that explored the theme of migration through contemporary artistic means.

On Wednesday, a full-day study trip took place to the city of Nantes, where participants visited major tourist attractions, deepening their understanding of French culture.

On Thursday, the program continued with visits to the castles of Chenonceaux and Loches, located in the Loire Valley, focusing on learning about France’s historical heritage.

On Friday, the group visited the Futuroscope science theme park. Through interactive exhibitions and technological demonstrations, students gained knowledge about science and future technologies in an engaging way. The day ended with a farewell evening, attended by host families, the school’s leadership, and representatives of the local administration.

On the final day of the program, Saturday, students had the opportunity to participate in recreational activities, such as shopping at the local market, and in the afternoon, they departed for Nantes airport for the return journey home.

The one-week program offered excellent opportunities for participants to develop their language skills, gain intercultural experiences, and achieve a deeper understanding of the French educational and social system. Hosting in families, professional activities, and cultural experiences contributed significantly to the students' personal and academic development, particularly in terms of environmental awareness.