TUESDAY, MARCH 18
Day 1 was an exciting start to the week! Students were responsible as they went through immigration and transitioned from bus to bus. They were excited to cross the HKZM Bridge and get their first glimpses of Hong Kong in the distance. It was straight to the activities where the fun of hiking, kayaking and visiting a farm began.
Group A: Hiking Through History
This scenic hike through beautiful trails in Hong Kong, provided the opportunity for students to learn about the city’s history during World War II. They showed resilience as they hiked through unfamiliar terrain and explored the tunnels of the Shing Mun Redoubt. Students joined in with the interactive story by playing the parts of various historical figures.
Group B: Kayaking Through Mangroves
Students went on a thrilling kayaking trip through the green mangrove forests. As they paddled along the waterways, they learned about the special plants and animals that live in mangroves. With the help of experienced guides, students discovered how important mangroves are for protecting coastlines and supporting wildlife, helping them appreciate nature more.
Group C: Visiting an Organic Farm
During a visit to a local farm, students learned about organic farming. They started the day by feeding friendly goats, which helped them connect with the animals. Then, they participated in planting activities, discovering how different crops grow and why sustainable farming is important. Students enjoyed a cooking session where they made lunch using fresh ingredients from the farm. The day ended with an art project, allowing students to express their creativity by making nature-inspired artworks, reinforcing what they learned about the environment and farming.
Breakthrough Village
The students were excited to find their rooms and spend the first evening settling in. During free time, they could relax in the courtyard, play sports and games in the gymnasium or watch a movie. Dinner was served and students learned the importance of good manners, being appreciative of the food and cleaning up after themselves. This type of accommodation allows the students to be responsible and independent within a safe space.
WEDNESDAY, MARCH 19
It was another day filled with adventure, exploration and taking risks. Students spent Day 2 at their second full day activity. They were challenged by new experiences and recognised the importance of having a growth mindset when doing things outside of their comfort zone.
Group A: Visiting an Organic Farm
Students picked fresh greens as they learned about the importance of organic farming. They then excitedly fed the friendly goats with the food they had collected, watching the animals munch happily. This hands-on activity allowed students to connect with the goats and understand their role in the farming ecosystem.
Guided by experienced farmers, students explored the garden, discovering how different crops are planted, nurtured, and harvested. Working together, they chopped, sautéed, and cooked their fresh ingredients, transforming them into a flavorful meal. This experience not only taught them about sustainable farming but also instilled a sense of accomplishment as they enjoyed the meal they made themsleves.
In a creative art project, students gathered a variety of leaves collected from the outdoor gardens. They learned about the technique of creating photograms, which involves placing the leaves on light-sensitive paper. Once their designs were complete, they exposed the paper to sunlight, revealing stunning silhouettes of the leaves.
Group B: Hiking Through History
Group C: Kayaking Through Mangroves
THURSDAY, MARCH 20
On Day 3, the students were challenged by new experiences as each group rotated through each activity. They continued to take risks hiking new trails, developing their cooking skills and learning the value of working together during kayaking. With a focus on being risk takers students recognised and embraced opportunities that may have been outside of their comfort zone.
FRIDAY, MARCH 21
There were mixed emotions on Day 4 with students excited about going home and also wanting to stay longer on Experience Week. The students were up early packing their bags, cleaning their rooms and getting ready for the final morning of activities. Breakfast was a lively event as students talked about their favourite memories and moments from the week. Then they divided into House Teams for the Lawn Games Challenge. They were excited to compete against each other to win points for their TIS House Team.