Primary school trips to the Opal Coast
£315 to £519
A typical school trip to the Opal Coast cost is £315 to £519 per person, depending on time of travel, transport, accommodation and inclusions.
Just a short trip across the English Channel, France's Opal Coast is abundant with experiences for primary-aged groups, from exploring a local cheese or snail farm, to visiting Nausicaa – Europe's biggest aquarium – and learning about marine life. Children will love visits to a French chocolate maker, biscuit factory, and boulangerie (bakery), where they can learn both about nutrition and how these confectionery items are made. Day trips to local seaside resorts, meanwhile, offer the opportunity to enjoy some fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of this picture-perfect region of France.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
Day
1
- Depart school and travel to the Opal Coast
- Boulogne Sur Mer
- Nausicaa aquarium
- Evening meal at local restaurant
Day
2
- Chocolate Maker
- Le Touquet
- Biscuit Factory Visit
- Snail Farm
- Evening meal at local restaurant
Day
3
- Depart from the Opal Coast
- Visit a local market
- Arrive in the UK
KS2 Geography: Exploring Coastlines and Coastal Processes
The Opal Coast provides a fascinating outdoor classroom where pupils can experience geographical concepts first-hand. From dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches to dunes and coastal habitats, the region offers opportunities to bring geography learning to life.
Pupils can:
- Study physical coastal features including cliffs, beaches, dunes and estuaries.
- Explore how erosion, deposition and weathering shape the coastline.
- Compare coastal environments in France and the UK.
- Investigate how people use and manage coastal areas.
- Develop map-reading, observation and fieldwork skills in real-world settings.
KS2 Science: Habitats, Ecosystems and the Natural World
The diverse landscapes of the Opal Coast offer opportunities to explore living things and their environments.
Pupils can:
- Investigate coastal habitats and local biodiversity.
- Identify plants and animals adapted to life by the sea.
- Understand food chains and ecosystems within marine environments.
- Observe seasonal and environmental changes in nature.
- Develop scientific enquiry skills through observation and data collection activities.
KS2 French: Language Learning in Context
A visit to northern France allows pupils to apply classroom language skills in meaningful and authentic situations.
Pupils can:
- Practise simple French phrases in everyday settings.
- Build confidence speaking and listening to French.
- Expand vocabulary related to travel, food and local culture.
- Experience French customs and traditions first-hand.
- Develop enthusiasm for continuing language learning.
KS2 English: Inspiration for Writing and Communication
The experiences and landscapes of the Opal Coast provide rich opportunities for literacy development.
Learning opportunities include:
- Writing travel journals and postcards.
- Creating descriptive writing inspired by coastal environments.
- Developing persuasive writing based on places visited.
- Producing reports and presentations about French culture and geography.
- Enhancing speaking and listening skills through collaborative activities.
KS2 History: Understanding Cross-Channel Connections
The Opal Coast has longstanding connections with Britain and Europe, offering valuable historical context for primary pupils.
Pupils can:
- Explore how the English Channel has connected people and cultures throughout history.
- Learn about historic ports, trade and travel routes.
- Investigate local heritage and regional history.
- Develop chronological awareness through historical case studies.
- Understand how geography has influenced historical events.
PSHE and Personal Development
An overseas educational visit supports pupils' wider development while creating lasting memories.
Pupils can:
- Build confidence and independence.
- Develop teamwork and communication skills.
- Increase resilience through new experiences.
- Learn about cultural diversity and respect for others.
- Strengthen social skills and friendships through shared learning experiences.
Features
ACCOMMODATION
With a pool, free Wi-Fi and restaurant – plus 5.5 hectares of enclosed private grounds – Le Cap d’Opale has all you could ask for from accommodation for your school group. What's more, this hotel is just a 15-minute walk from Ambleteuse Beach.
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Basketball/volleyball court
- Heated indoor swimming pool
With a pool, free Wi-Fi and restaurant – plus 5.5 hectares of enclosed private grounds – Le Cap d’Opale has all you could ask for from accommodation for your school group. What's more, this hotel is just a 15-minute walk from Ambleteuse Beach.
- Free Wi-Fi
- Restaurant
- Basketball/volleyball court
- Heated indoor swimming pool
Excursions
Boulogne sur Mer
A major Roman port for trade and communication, Boulogne-sur-Mer is a popular coastal city in Northern France you’ll be at no loss for things to discover. The city has changed hands several times across its millennia of history, and even today reflects its rule under England and Germany. Don’t miss the city’s 12th-century belfry, which is UNESCO-listed, and the marine conservation centre Nausicaa – an excursion we know students will love.
Nausicaa Sea Life Centre
Students will love the interactive elements of this brilliant aquarium, where they can feel the rough texture of a ray’s back and watch penguins gulping down their dinner – all within the space of an hour! With 1,600 different species, Europe’s largest aquarium is a fantastic resource for developing an understanding of marine ecology and conservation issues.
Chocolate Maker
School groups will love discovering the chemistry of chocolate at this amazing chocolatier on the Opal Coast. Here, students can watch as the delicacy is heated, stirred, moulded and decorated into a fabulous display of novelty shapes. We recommend sampling the dark, rich chocolate of at least 70% cocoa – a contrast from the familiar milk chocolate we find on UK shelves.
Biscuit Factory Tour
Master biscuit makers demonstrate their craft on this excursion, sharing the stages of how biscuits are made – from selecting high‑quality ingredients, through mixing, shaping and baking. Finish your visit with a tasting and a visit to the on-site biscuit shop.
Snail Farm
Enter the tiny world of the snail with a visit to a snail farm, where school groups can watch the gastropods’ antennae see, taste and explore. Students will investigate the molluscs’ adaptations and life cycle, from egg-hatching in the spring to winter hibernation, and learn about the importance of snail production in traditional French cuisine.
Berck sur Mer
A seaside haven for school groups, Berck sur Mer has a wide variety of activities to provide the perfect beach visit. From its charming old-fashioned carousel and a mini electric car track to Mambo Mini Golf and a go-kart track, Berck has something for students of any age; we know they’ll love some down-time here.
Agincourt Centre Historique Medieval
Step back in time and let your students discover the legendary battles of the Hundred Years War at the Agincourt Medieval History Centre. One of the last remaining battlefields of the war, Agincourt tells the tale of the eponymous battle of 1415, in which the English army (led by King Henry V) defeated the French forces.
Le Touquet
With its foray of watersports, artistic heritage and picturesque setting, Le Touquet is a long-time favourite of Equity staff, and we can’t wait to share its charm with you and your students. With far-reaching views of the sea and countryside, the lighthouse of Phare Le Touquet is a particular highlight, as well as the Musée du Touquet and art deco Covered Market.
Boulogne sur Mer
A major Roman port for trade and communication, Boulogne-sur-Mer is a popular coastal city in Northern France you’ll be at no loss for things to discover. The city has changed hands several times across its millennia of history, and even today reflects its rule under England and Germany. Don’t miss the city’s 12th-century belfry, which is UNESCO-listed, and the marine conservation centre Nausicaa – an excursion we know students will love.
Nausicaa Sea Life Centre
Students will love the interactive elements of this brilliant aquarium, where they can feel the rough texture of a ray’s back and watch penguins gulping down their dinner – all within the space of an hour! With 1,600 different species, Europe’s largest aquarium is a fantastic resource for developing an understanding of marine ecology and conservation issues.
Chocolate Maker
School groups will love discovering the chemistry of chocolate at this amazing chocolatier on the Opal Coast. Here, students can watch as the delicacy is heated, stirred, moulded and decorated into a fabulous display of novelty shapes. We recommend sampling the dark, rich chocolate of at least 70% cocoa – a contrast from the familiar milk chocolate we find on UK shelves.
Biscuit Factory Tour
Master biscuit makers demonstrate their craft on this excursion, sharing the stages of how biscuits are made – from selecting high‑quality ingredients, through mixing, shaping and baking. Finish your visit with a tasting and a visit to the on-site biscuit shop.
Snail Farm
Enter the tiny world of the snail with a visit to a snail farm, where school groups can watch the gastropods’ antennae see, taste and explore. Students will investigate the molluscs’ adaptations and life cycle, from egg-hatching in the spring to winter hibernation, and learn about the importance of snail production in traditional French cuisine.
Berck sur Mer
A seaside haven for school groups, Berck sur Mer has a wide variety of activities to provide the perfect beach visit. From its charming old-fashioned carousel and a mini electric car track to Mambo Mini Golf and a go-kart track, Berck has something for students of any age; we know they’ll love some down-time here.
Agincourt Centre Historique Medieval
Step back in time and let your students discover the legendary battles of the Hundred Years War at the Agincourt Medieval History Centre. One of the last remaining battlefields of the war, Agincourt tells the tale of the eponymous battle of 1415, in which the English army (led by King Henry V) defeated the French forces.
Le Touquet
With its foray of watersports, artistic heritage and picturesque setting, Le Touquet is a long-time favourite of Equity staff, and we can’t wait to share its charm with you and your students. With far-reaching views of the sea and countryside, the lighthouse of Phare Le Touquet is a particular highlight, as well as the Musée du Touquet and art deco Covered Market.
Trip details
All Equity packages are tailor-made to suit the needs of our groups. Here are our standard package inclusions:
- Return travel by coach
- Channel Crossing
- 1 free staff place for every 8 full paying passengers by coach
- Half-board accommodation
- Excursions
- Full use of your coach during your trip (this applies to coach groups only and is subject to EU drivers hours regulations)
- 24-hour emergency service support
- All travel documentation, luggage labels and resort information
- Lunches
- Meals en-route. While travelling to and from your destination you need to consider meals. These are not included in the package prices
- Tourist tax
- Damage deposit
Prices are subject to change based on intended dates of travel and final numbers, the Equity team are here to offer you advice and guidance from start to finish, ensuring your school trip runs smoothly and is a great success.
Travel by: Coach
Transfer time from Calais: 0.5hrs
Best times to travel: Summer
Suggested tour length: 3 days, 2 nights
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Frequently Asked Questions About Primary School Trips to the Opal Coast
Why is the Opal Coast a good destination for a primary school trip?
The Opal Coast combines educational value with exciting experiences. Its beautiful coastline, proximity to the UK, French cultural experiences and strong curriculum links make it an ideal destination for primary school groups.
What age groups are primary school trips to the Opal Coast suitable for?
The destination is particularly well suited to Key Stage 2 pupils, with activities and visits that can be adapted to a range of ages and learning objectives.
How does the Opal Coast support the geography curriculum?
Pupils can study coastal landscapes, physical geography, tourism and environmental management through direct observation. The region provides an excellent opportunity for meaningful fieldwork and geographical enquiry.
Can pupils practise French during the trip?
Yes. Pupils have opportunities to hear and use French in authentic situations throughout their visit, helping reinforce classroom learning and improve confidence.
Is the Opal Coast suitable for a cross-curricular school trip?
Absolutely. The destination supports Geography, Science, French, English, History and PSHE, making it a highly effective cross-curricular educational visit.
How does an overseas trip benefit primary-aged pupils?
International travel encourages independence, resilience, confidence and teamwork. It allows pupils to experience new cultures while developing valuable life skills.
What makes the Opal Coast different from other school trip destinations?
Its combination of accessible travel, stunning coastal scenery, educational attractions and authentic French cultural experiences provides a unique learning environment for young pupils.
Why do teachers choose the Opal Coast for educational visits?
Teachers value the destination for its strong curriculum links, manageable journey times, safe learning environment and excellent opportunities for outdoor and experiential learning.
