Westall House welcomes French students for cultural exchange
Westall House in Horsted Keynes played host to a group of French students, who were keen to learn more about life at a care home in England.
The Channel-hopping group are all studying health and social care in France and, following a tour of Westall House, had the opportunity to chat to the residents about their lives. They also spoke to staff about their experience of working in a care home.
The student group said, “We wanted to visit a care home in the UK during our school trip to see how an English care home works differently from a French one, and take a look at the facilities it has, what types of care the residents receive and the activities organised.”
The visit provided the residents the chance to ask questions of the students as well. Resident Mary Grieve said, “I thought the students were great and I asked them a lot of questions about their schools and homes. They wanted to find out all about living in a care home. We had a really lovely afternoon.”
Staff member Christelle Tarling, who was born and raised in France, acted as interpreter for much of the day.
“Westall felt French for a few hours, it was great,” she said. “Being French myself, I was asked to help with any translation, which was very much needed, especially when ordering refreshments! Before Westall, I used to work for a French company, organising mini-stays in the UK for French school groups, so I felt right at home.
“The whole group thoroughly enjoyed their visit. The teachers told me that they found Westall House amazing and that the residents looked happy. After a few group pictures, we wished them all ‘bon voyage!’”
Learn more about Westall House
Located in the picturesque village of Horsted Keynes, Westall House is a CQC 'Outstanding' rated residential care home offering comfortable en-suite rooms, personalized care plans, engaging activities, and delicious meals within a welcoming community that benefits from village life and nearby attractions. They provide both residential and specialist dementia care, as well as independent living options and respite care.
Read more news and stories from across Abbeyfield
17/09/2026
International learning and the Abbeyfield spirit
We were delighted to recently welcome Oscar Lustin, Co-founder of Domani in France, to Father Popieluszko House in Acton, part of the Abbeyfield London Polish Society. The visit was a fascinating exchange of ideas and experiences, and a reminder that while housing and care systems may look different from one country to another, the values that underpin them can be remarkably similar.
Read More
28/08/2026
July at Friars Mead!
Friars Mead had a busy month of July. From games to BBQ's, see what residents and staff have been up to!
Read More