Food and Youth in France

At the end of September, students from the UCEAP Food, History, and Culture in Paris program took a short study tour outside the city. The excursion was part of two different courses, French Youth Culture and Cultural Politics of Food. Their destination was Savigny-sur-Orge, about an hour outside of Paris, to visit La Ferme en Champagne. This historical site, which once served as a juvenile correctional facility from 1945 to 1972, holds a significant connection to the renowned filmmaker François Truffaut. It is believed that Truffaut attended the center during his youth, and he had hoped to film scenes for his iconic movie The 400 Blows at the location, though he was unable to secure authorization. Today, the facility has been transformed into both a museum and a cooking school, with a nearby education center for minors under supervision.

During their visit, the students enjoyed lunch at the training restaurant on-site, where they were treated to a meal prepared and served by students of the cooking school for minors. This experience showcased how culinary training in France helps young people gain valuable skills for future employment while fostering confidence and reintegration into society. Following the meal, they participated in a guided tour of the museum, which provided an insightful look into the history of the juvenile justice system in France. The museum, housed in the very walls of the old observation center, has converted the former small cells into exhibition rooms, offering a unique and educational glimpse into the institution’s past.

Courses taught at Accent all have a storng experiential component. Instructors use the host city and region as course material; classroom lectures are enhanced by site visits to various locations, which may include monuments and museums, neighborhood landmarks, local and international companies, governmental agencies, NGOS, and more. To discuss potential courses or other ways to customize your education abroad program, please reach out to the Accent Development team at development@accentglobal.com