I think it’s safe to say that the fondest memories most of us hold from our school days are those we spent on school camps and day trips, away from the classroom and exploring the unknown. You are taken out of your comfort zone and challenged to show your independence, given the space to open up and let in new friends and knowledge, and then sent home thriving from all you achieved.
With this in mind, we asked the schools in Shanghai about their experiences on student trips. Whether the children took a bus to a city museum or a flight to Tanzania, at the core of their adventure was a desire to create an appreciation for the world around them, and identify how they can make a positive impact in the future.
With passionate teachers, curious minds and inspiring locations, the students were given a solid foundation to view the world through a different lens and create lasting memories. Now, let's hear from Meghan Raeburn-Garbett, Year 5 Group Leader of Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong, about their trip to Nan Bei Hu.
On October 11-13, 2017, Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong Year 5 students embarked on an adventure to Nan Bei Hu in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province, for their residential trip. During the trip, the children were given the opportunity to take part in many activities that would challenge them in different ways. They were able to develop their ability to work with others while making large Roman-style catapults and they especially enjoyed the resulting water balloon fight, using their catapult to launch water balloons at each other. They learned how to survive in the wilderness, understanding what would be required to build a suitable shelter, and how to make a fire to keep warm. During the mountain hike, the children listened intently as they heard tales from the forests in and around Nan Bei Hu. But, the most anticipated activity was definitely the Leap of Faith, a 12-foot-high metal pole which the children climbed up and then leaped off the top. The ultimate test of bravery!
Evenings saw the children enjoy songs and stories around the camp fire – with musical performances by students that were appreciated by everyone. The delicious barbecue dinner was another highlight. Toasting marshmallows around an open fire with your closest friends – what wonderful memories for the children.
This residential trip allowed the children to develop their independence, understand more about themselves and test their limits, while in a safe and comfortable environment. It required them to collaborate as a team and resulted in new-formed friendships. Year 5 students should be commended on their efforts during the trip, many of them demonstrating our college values throughout the time they were away. We are very proud of our Year 5 students!
Meghan Raeburn-Garbett is the Year 5 Group Leader of Dulwich College Shanghai Pudong
