Setting Off for Guangzhou

Our Secondary 3 Canberrans began their overseas learning journey with excitement as they departed Singapore for Guangzhou, China. Travelling together gave students the opportunity to exercise greater independence and responsibility, while looking out for one another as they embarked on the five-day learning experience.

Experiencing a New Environment

Beyond the planned learning activities, travelling overseas also gave students opportunities to experience a different environment, cuisine and way of life. Sharing meals and navigating the programme together encouraged them to step outside their usual routines and strengthen their bonds with their peers.

Discovering Foshan’s Living Heritage

Students explored Foshan’s rich cultural heritage and learnt more about the traditions that have shaped the local community over generations. Through observing the historic surroundings and learning about the development of the area, they gained a deeper appreciation of how cultural heritage can be preserved while remaining relevant in a modern city.

Learning Through Traditional Craftsmanship

A highlight of the day was the pottery experience, where students had the opportunity to try their hands at a traditional craft closely associated with Foshan. Working with clay required patience, focus and careful control, allowing students to appreciate the skill and perseverance involved in traditional craftsmanship.

A Meaningful Start to the Journey

Day 1 gave our students their first glimpse into the history, culture and traditions of the Greater Bay Area. Through both observation and hands-on learning, they began the journey of becoming more culturally aware, adaptable and appreciative of perspectives beyond Singapore.

Our Secondary 3 Canberrans spent Day 2 deepening their appreciation of Foshan’s rich cultural heritage. The day began with a visit to the Foshan Ancestral Temple, where students learnt more about the city’s history and its strong links to martial arts legends such as Wong Fei Hung and Ip Man, both of whom are well known through popular films. Through the exhibits and guided sharing, students gained a better understanding of how these iconic figures continue to shape Foshan’s cultural identity. 

The students also visited Liangyuan Garden, where they experienced the beauty of traditional Chinese architecture and landscaping. Exploring the garden together gave them the opportunity to appreciate the elegance of the space while also bonding with one another in a calm and memorable setting.

A highlight of the day was the traditional lion head painting workshop, where students took part in a hands-on cultural experience. As they decorated their own lion heads, they developed patience, creativity and a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind this traditional art form.

Overall, Day 2 offered students a meaningful blend of heritage, cultural learning and shared experiences, allowing them to connect more deeply with Foshan’s traditions while strengthening friendships along the way.

Students learning about Foshan’s heritage at the Foshan Ancestral Temple. 

Students enjoying the scenic beauty of Liangyuan Garden and bonding with one another. 

Our Secondary 3 Canberrans began Day 3 with a meaningful school immersion at Guangzhou Nansha Experimental School. Students had the opportunity to experience a different school environment, interact with their counterparts and learn more about school life in Guangzhou. Through conversations and shared activities, they exchanged perspectives, built new friendships and developed a greater appreciation of another culture. The exchange of commemorative gifts was a meaningful gesture of friendship and strengthened the connection between both schools.

The learning continued at the Huawei Smart Living Pavilion, where students explored how technology is being integrated into everyday life. Through hands-on interaction with smart devices and innovative solutions, they gained a glimpse into how technology can improve convenience, communication and the way people live. The experience also encouraged them to think about how rapidly technology is evolving and how innovation may shape their own future.

Later in the day, students explored Shamian Island, where they experienced a different side of Guangzhou through its distinctive architecture and streetscape. It was another opportunity for them to observe how history, culture and modern city life come together within the city.

The day concluded with a Pearl River Cruise, where students took in Guangzhou’s vibrant night skyline. Beyond enjoying the scenery, the cruise gave them time to reflect on the day, relax together and strengthen their friendships through shared experiences.

Day 3 brought together cultural exchange, innovation, exploration and friendship, giving our Canberrans a rich learning experience beyond the classroom while encouraging them to become more curious, adaptable and globally aware.

Building friendships through a meaningful school immersion at Guangzhou Nansha Experimental School. 

A commemorative gift exchange celebrating the friendship between both schools. 

Students exploring innovative technologies at the Huawei Smart Living Pavilion.

Our Secondary 3 Canberrans began Day 4 at the Museum of the Nanyue King, where they explored exhibits that offered a glimpse into Guangzhou’s rich history and archaeological heritage. Through the artefacts and displays, students gained a deeper appreciation of how the city’s past continues to shape its identity today.

The group also made a brief stop at the Huaisheng Mosque. As the mosque was undergoing renovation, students were unable to explore much of the grounds, but they were able to observe its distinctive tall white minaret and learn about the presence of different cultures and communities within Guangzhou.

In the afternoon, students visited the Guangdong Science Centre, where interactive exhibits gave them opportunities to explore scientific concepts through hands-on learning. The experience encouraged curiosity and allowed students to engage with science beyond the classroom.

The day continued at Yongqingfang and Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street, where students experienced another side of Guangzhou — one where traditional architecture and local culture sit alongside the energy of a modern city.

This overseas learning journey was more than an opportunity to explore Guangzhou and Foshan. It was a meaningful experience that broadened students’ perspectives, strengthened their independence and adaptability, and deepened their appreciation of different cultures. The lessons learnt, friendships strengthened and memories created throughout the journey will continue to shape our Canberrans as they take on new experiences beyond the classroom. 

Our Canberrans discovering Guangzhou’s rich history and heritage at Nanyue King Museum.

Students learning through interactive exhibits at the Guangdong Science Centre.