Children from across Livingston celebrate Bastille Day in true French style

Daily Record

a day ago

The celebration brought France to West Lothian with French music, food, games, and art activities, offering young learners a memorable introduction to both the language and culture of France.
Children from across Livingston celebrated Bastille Day in true French style this week as local French teacher, Sandra Kasparek's popular bilingual summer camp launched its 2025 season with a festive, fun-filled day of cultural immersion and language learning.
Set in a private venue in Livingston, Sandra's French-themed Holiday Activities Club opened its doors on 14 July - Bastille Day, France's national holiday, marking the start of an exciting summer of creativity, connection, and bilingual discovery.
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The celebration brought France to West Lothian with French music, food, games, and art activities, offering young learners a memorable introduction to both the language and culture of France.
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'This was the perfect way to kick off camp,' said Sandra Kasparek, a seasoned French teacher and licensee of the award-winning La Jolie Ronde Programme.
'Bastille Day is a fantastic opportunity for children to connect with French traditions in a fun, meaningful way. It sets the tone for the rest of the summer where every day is a blend of language, learning, and laughter.'
Sandra has been running French classes in Livingston for over 15 years, and her summer camp has grown into a beloved local tradition.
This year, excitement reached new heights with children from as far afield as Keswick in Cumbria returning for the vibrant, bilingual experience.
The Bastille Day celebration was just the beginning.
Throughout July and into August, children will enjoy a range of hands-on activities including baking, arts and crafts, dance, outdoor games, and role-playing—all conducted in both English and French.
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It's an immersive approach that keeps children engaged while developing real-world language skills.
Parent Jane, from Livingston, said: 'My daughter Grace has been attending Sandra's Summer Camp for a few years now, and every year, she can't wait to go back.
'Grace absolutely loves meeting new friends from all over, and the fun activities keep her engaged while boosting her language skills.
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'It's more than just a camp, it's a place where she feels at home and excited to learn. Every time summer approaches, she's the first to ask, 'When can I go back to Sandra's holiday club?'
Sandra's camp is open for both full-day (9am–4pm) and half-day bookings, with discounts available for multi-day attendance.
The programme not only boosts language confidence but also creates a warm and welcoming environment where children feel at home.
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'What we do here is more than just language lessons,' added Sandra.
'It's about building confidence, sparking curiosity, and creating lasting memories. Seeing children so eager to return year after year, especially on a day like Bastille Day, reminds me how powerful and joyful learning can be.'