SEVENTEEN sixth formers from Shebbear College went on the AS2 Business Studies trip to Paris.

They saw the sights, including the stunning Sacre Coeur via a couple of chocolate boutiques and souvenir shops.

After climbing the hundreds of stone steps, they turned their heads to reveal the stunning views of a Paris sunset.

In the Sacre Coeur, where the silence was thoroughly enforced by the ‘security’ guards, there was a chance for students to light a candle in loving memory of Miss Simpson and it was placed under the statue of an angel just near the entrance of the cathedral. English teacher Charlotte Simpson sadly died in a road traffic collision last June.

The students went on to Montmartre, visited many shops and creperies, bought gifts, and watched the various artists that were working in the square.

On the Sunday morning they visited the Louvre.

Nils Benkeser said: “The architecture of the Louvre was incredible and the paintings were really impressive, as was seeing the ‘Mona Lisa’ in real life.”

The students also visited Notre Dame Cathedral.

Della Lo said: “I was stunned by its magnificent atmosphere. There were nuns singing some really beautiful hymns and it just made me feel peaceful and calm, even though I didn’t understand what they were singing!

“Lit candles were everywhere inside the cathedral; it felt comfortable and stately at the same time. The two stained glass windows up on the wall were spectacular, they were humongous and so colourful. I was amazed.”

They atttended a business live conference at the Disney cinema. Claire Dixon gave a talk, including statistics about Disney’s performance last year financially.

The second talk in the business conference was delivered by Linda Moir, who used to work for Virgin Atlantic. She spoke to the students about the different companies she has worked for, and the different techniques in promoting their businesses.

The second part of the business conference saw a talk from the digital communications manager of Innocent.

The students also had a visit to Disneyland.

Lily Harding said: “To finish off our time in Disney, a group of us went to the light show. It was the most magical 30 minutes you could imagine. With fireworks, flashing lights and loud Disney music, it was a magical way to complete our time in Disney.”

A highlight for many students was visiting the Eiffel Tower. Abby Selwyn said: “We could see all of Paris and spot all the other famous places we had been to on the trip, it was breathtaking for all of us.”