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. 

Reflection focus: what a peer-school exchange reveals about shared and different futures.

Reflection focus: reading a city's layered history through its museums and restored old streets.

Reflection focus: pulling five days of encounters into what students will carry back to Singapore.