So this is the first of many posts (hopefully) regarding my Year Abroad in the region of Rennes, France. All I know so far is that I've been allocated a placement in a secondary school in the académie of Rennes. This does not necessary mean I'll be that close to the city of Rennes though... will find out by the end of July, hopefully...
Obviously, the first post requires a picture, and I thought this one was a great one to start off with. Can't tell you where it is... *looks on Google*, erm, well the website I got it from doesn't say. I'll come back to you and tell you when I've visited it.
So, what was one of the first things I did upon finding out I was placed in Rennes? Look at the best way to get there. Single on the Eurostar was over £160, flights range from £70-£350. £70 is great, apart from it's from Southampton (having taken a first plane from Manchester...). As I live in Leicester at home, this is ridiculous. I have been advised, however, to fly to Nantes and then get a train. More effort, but cheaper. And they go from East Midlands/Birmingham. Brilliant.
What's next? More waiting around, sadly. Oh and lots of internet stalking of Rennes. Might be possible to start looking for accommodation, but obviously, can't do much until I know exactly where I'm going. I need to have the narrowed down location because otherwise looking for suitable, close accommodation would be like finding a place in Yorkshire and Humber. Too vague.
I have to say, my lecturer was right when she warned us that applying for a British Council Assistantship was not something for the overly anxious. It's painful when waiting for correspondence from the BC. And, France, with its bureaucracy is going to be worse. I've got it all to come with applying for things such as housing benefits, the CAF.
It's getting closer. I'm getting more excited, but also, more petrified by the day. Have to keep reminding myself, my Summer hasn't even started yet, don't get too excited.
I'm also going to be keeping a French blog, which probably won't get many posts until I'm actually in France, but that can be found here. Finally, here's a link to a best friend's blog, (and the French one) who will be spending her year in La Réunion!
