The annual ESOL trip took place from 30th April to 2nd May 2005. Twelve of our overseas students spent three days in the Bournemouth/Portsmouth area.

Our E.S.O.L trip to Bournemouth - May 2005 - an account by Reg Chong in Year 9

It was an early start on Saturday 30th April on our trip to Bournemouth. Within minutes of setting off, everyone was asleep. Sleepy and hungry, we arrived in Bournemouth. We unpacked quickly and went to Bournemouth centre. After we walked around the town, we went to a Chinese "eat as much as you can" buffet. I ate the most dishes - seven dishes! Do you think you can beat me? It was a good job the sea was calm when we went on our beat trip! Then we shopped and shopped and shopped before the cinema.

A lovely traditional English breakfast appeared in front of us at 8:30a.m on Sunday 1st May. We went to Portsmouth, for an introduction to some British naval history. Then we went to Gunwharf Quays near the harbour, shopping again and again! Then we had the most exciting and professional Friends' bowing championship. After that I went to an Indian restaurant, my body got a really strong message - very tried.

Another lovely breakfast on Monday morning! We went to Christchurch, which is the place where our E.S.O.L teacher - Mrs Gillmore was born. Our final shopping trip... also, it was our last day. In the afternoon, we played football, I tried to save the goals, but they were too good! Why was everything so unfair for me? I lost the bowling and the football!! Anyway I still enjoyed it! Before we left, we gave a painting to Mrs Gillmore to express our gratitude. Then, we came back to the school.

(Reggie Chong Year 9)

Many thanks to Michelle and Peter Gillmore for organising and accompanying this most succesful trip.

Click here to see photos of the last trip.