Paris Inspires Design Students with Art, Fashion, and Culture

Students eagerly immersed themselves in the charm of the city’s historic streets while visiting some of its most renowned cultural landmarks.

The group was particularly captivated by the fashion exhibition at the Louvre, where they admired exquisite designs that bridged history and contemporary style. At the Pompidou Centre, they engaged with bold and thought-provoking modern art, while the Impressionist masterpieces at the Musée d’Orsay left them in awe of the movement’s beauty and innovation.

A highlight of the trip was a visit inside the iconic and newly restored Notre Dame Cathedral. Sitting amidst its peaceful atmosphere, students took in the breathtaking architecture, appreciating both its history and grandeur.

The teachers added a bit of fun to the adventure by rewarding students who arrived first for check-in before the boat trip with chocolate medals—a tasty recognition of their punctuality and enthusiasm!

This memorable experience in Paris not only deepened students’ appreciation for art and fashion but also enriched their understanding of European culture and history.

Nick Saunders, Head of Art and Design, reflected on the trip, “For many students, this was their first experience of a residential trip overseas. Coping with a different language, managing a new currency, and navigating new methods of transportation are hugely valuable experiences that can help build their confidence. It equips them with skills that will enable them to meet the challenges that degree level education and the professional workplace will bring. Additionally, the benefits of a period of intense exposure to some of the greatest works of art in the world can only positively impact their course work. Seeing up close iconic paintings such as Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa in the Louvre, or Vincent Van Gogh’s The Starry Night in the Musée d’Orsay are experiences that they will never forget.”

A wonderful evening river cruise along the Seine and seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkling in the night sky on the last night of the trip was the perfect way to say goodbye, for now, to Paris.