At Ermitage, we feel strongly that an open-minded approach and a desire to understand other cultures are essential values to encourage in our students. Welcoming foreign students is therefore at the heart of our educational activities.

Between All Saints Day and Christmas 2022, the students and teachers of the Lycée had the pleasure of welcoming Tessa, who came from South Africa for a few weeks.

We hope that she enjoyed these moments of exchange and discovery, with Margaux and her host family, in the green setting of Maisons-Laffitte and during her visits to Paris.

Here is her testimony:

“As I arrived in France I was greeted by my amazing host family. It was hard at first, having to adjust to new times and their daily routines.

This is my first time in France, and all I can say is wow. I love visiting all the castles, small villages and especially visiting Paris. My first view of Paris was of the Arc de Triomphe, which for me was amazing as I had only ever seen it in pictures. The museums, the architecture as well as the people, have all impressed me. 

The first day of school gave me a bit of a headache, as I am not used to having almost all of my classes in French, but I have made some really nice friends at Ermitage. The school itself is so different to what I’m used to, and every day I am constantly learning new things, both in classes and during break times. I’m so glad I have chosen Ermitage as my exchange school as it’s given me the opportunity to experience new things. Luckily I am paired with a lovely host family who took me in, and my exchange partner, Margaux who is helping me every day and making sure I adjust well to the new environments.”