The campus felt rather quiet over the past few days as students from across the school took part in Enrichment Week. Students and teachers have been exploring different cities across China, discovering knowledge and skills beyond the classroom. From our youngest learners to the oldest, each group is experiencing something unforgettable!
Our youngest students, from Early Years to Year 2, visited the Shanghai Wild Animal Park. They were thrilled to see large animals like tigers and crocodiles, as well as smaller creatures such as golden monkeys and a variety of birds. The students had an unforgettable day.
Year 3 at Gucun Dinosaur Park
Year 3 had an incredible time at Gucun Dinosaur Park, where the students encountered life-sized dinosaur models, including Brachiosauruses, Pterodactyls, Velociraptors, Triceratops, and more. This hands-on learning experience brought their International Primary Curriculum unit, "Footprints of the Past," to life, allowing them to engage with history in a real-world setting.
Highlights included an exciting 7D video, which introduced fascinating geographic concepts like Pangea, helping students visualise the ancient world of dinosaurs. Our young explorers also engaged in lively discussions about herbivores, carnivores, and omnivores, observing unique traits like canines, beaks, and molars that suit each diet. This educational adventure was both fun and engaging, sparking curiosity and reinforcing classroom learning in a dynamic way.
Students in Years 4 and 5 traveled to Anji in Huzhou, Zhejiang. They spent time hiking in the mountains, trying rock climbing, and balancing on single-plank bridges. In the fresh air, everyone’s courage and strength were boosted! This trip is the first for these students where they spend time away from home for a prolonged period of time, helping to build their confidence, independence and developing their sense of adventure and exploration.
Year 6-7 in Yangshuo, Guilin
Years 6 and 7 went to Yangshuo in Guilin. Known for the famous saying, "Guilin's scenery is the best in the world, and Yangshuo’s scenery is the best of Guilin," it’s truly a breathtaking place. Students explored by cycling, camping, cooking outdoors, and even venturing into caves, broadening their horizons with these new experiences. Again, these experiences introduce a sense camaraderie, independence and develop a whole range of life skills that will be further developed as they progress through school.
Year 8-9: Learning Life Skills in Henan
The Year 8 and 9 students have had an enriching, hands-on experience, diving into fundamental building and life skills within Henan province. Under the guidance of instructors, they’ve learned how to build arch structures and worked with traditional construction and compacting tools to work the soil, demonstrating both patience and skill. After completing their projects, the students were taught some valuable cooking skills as they created their own meals in large iron pots before enjoying the food as a group. This immersive experience not only gave them a sense of accomplishment through physical work and developing new abilities, but it also enhanced their collaboration and independent skills.
Year 10-12 in Shaanxi: A Cultural and Charitable Experience
Finally, Years 10 to 12 traveled to Shaanxi, a culturally rich province. They raised money for left-behind children in rural areas by selling small items. Some students went door to door, while others set up stalls. They also crafted dog houses to donate to the local community and learned to make Terra Cotta Warriors. This meaningful journey allowed them to learn through culture and experience the real world in a truly impactful way. For these students, alongside their opportunities to develop confidence, they showcased their consideration for others, building empathy and supporting those people (and animals) who are less fortunate than themselves.
This Enrichment Week has allowed our students to connect with the world around them, learn new skills, and embrace China’s rich cultural heritage in unique and memorable ways. Every part of every trip is built around our aims to develop creative, confident and considerate students who are prepared for their futures, with a sprinkling of fun and adventure along the way. We can’t wait to hear all about the trips from the students when they’re back on campus next week.
