Day 1: A Warm Welcome to Bali!
Our overseas learning journey began bright and early today as we gathered at Canberra Secondary School at 5:20am. Spirits were high despite the early hour, and we were touched by the warm send-off from our Principal, Mr Leong, and the many parents who came to bid us farewell. With luggage in tow and excitement in our hearts, we headed to the airport, ready to embark on our Bali adventure!
After a smooth 2-hour flight (complete with a sumptuous breakfast on board!), we touched down in beautiful Denpasar. There, we were warmly welcomed by our friendly tour guide, Mr Susila, who wasted no time in introducing us to the rich culture and traditions of Bali. We learned fascinating facts about the Balinese language, the significance of daily offerings, and the island’s abundance of temples—each one a testament to the deep spirituality of the local people.
Following a hearty lunch, we made our way to one of the highlights of the day: a visit to the renowned Green School Bali. This isn’t your typical school—it’s an avant-garde, eco-friendly international school founded by expatriate John Hardy. Inspired by the desire for harmony and balance between people, nature, and the divine, Green School embraces the principles of permaculture.
We were amazed to learn how the school mimics natural ecosystems and champions a culture of sustainability, not just in agriculture but also in urban planning, architecture, and community well-being. The school buildings themselves were an eye-opener—constructed primarily from bamboo, traditional mud walls, and other renewable resources, they blend seamlessly into the lush surroundings.
After an inspiring and insightful visit, we capped off our day with a delicious dinner and a thoughtful debrief session. With hearts full and minds buzzing with new ideas, we're all looking forward to what tomorrow holds!
Stay tuned for more updates from our journey!