CHILDREN from a pair of Keighley schools have visited some of France's most iconic cultural landmarks.

A group of 72 year six pupils from St Joseph's and Our Lady of Victories (OLV) Catholic primary schools, accompanied by 15 staff, went on a trip to Paris and the battlefields of the First World War last month. (January)

John Devlin, executive head teacher of these two schools, said: "Each year, children from year six at both schools travel to France for a residential in January.

"This year, we again visited the World War One battlefields, and did a tour of famous sites in Paris.

"The schools also went to mass in churches that are special to them. OLV's pupils visited Notre Dame des Victoires, their mother church, while St Joseph's children went to mass at St Joseph's Church near the Champs Élysées.

"We also got to go to Disneyland Paris for a fun-filled day.

"We believe residential visits such as this are extremely important for a child's education. They help the children develop their confidence and social skills as well as help with their writing once they are back at school.

"But above all, school should be the best days of their lives, so we want them all to have an adventure!

"To be honest, our staff enjoy it as much as the children. The Paris weekend is absolutely fabulous, absolutely exhausting but well worth the effort."

Mr Devlin said the trip was an ideal opportunity for youngsters from these schools to mix before they progress to Holy Family Catholic School.

He added: "St Joseph’s and OLV are part of the Blessed Christopher Wharton Catholic Academy Trust. Our staff and children work together whenever possible for the benefit of both schools."