The world is the true classroom. The most rewarding and important type of learning is through experience, seeing something with our own eyes. - Jack Hanna
BRS is always unique in facilitating the students to achieve the maximum in both scholastic and co-scholastic areas to enhance their overall development. One of these ways is by organizing international trips for the students to explore the world outside the classroom. The school focuses on students learning in all possible aspects. As a result, BRS students of Grade 8 to 12 got the opportunity to visit Singapore and Indonesia (Binton Island) as an educational trip where they learnt and explored through various unique activities.
The trip was from 29th November 2024 – 4th December 2024 (5 days and 5 nights) The participants included 16 (5 girls, 11 boys) who were accompanied by teachers Mr. Mohit Chawla, Ms.Chitra Devi and tour leader Mr. Rishi Sethi. The group started from Abu Dhabi Airport on 29th December 2024 at 10:05 pm by Etihad Airways EY498. All the five days started with a “Thought for the day” shared by the students which was related to the day’s activities and ended with the feedback session which was helpful to know the views of the participants.
ADVENTURE BEGINS WHERE COMFORT ZONES END. STEP OUT AND EXPLORE THE WORLD AROUND YOU.
Arrival in Singapore: The group arrived in Singapore at 9:30 AM (local time).
Students were enthusiastic and ready for a rich cultural and educational experience.
The guide, Mr. Richard, explained about the places while travelling from place to place.
Guided Tour of NUS (National University of Singapore): A scholar from NUS provided a campus tour and an in-depth overview of the admission process, academic prerequisites, and scholarship opportunities. o Students learnt about the importance of academic excellence and extracurricular activities in securing admission. o The interactive session allowed students to understand the global academic standards and inspired many to consider higher education abroad.
1. The visit to NUS Museum which has over 8,000 artefacts and artworks across four collections. The collections were introduced by the Museum’s first curator, Michael Sullivan, as a teaching collection for the University in 1955.
2. Night Safari: In the evening, the group explored Singapore’s renowned Night Safari (the world’s first Night Safari) witnessing nocturnal animals in their natural habitats. o Students learnt about wildlife conservation and ecological balance through an engaging commentary during the safari ride. o One of the highlights was “Creatures of the Night” show.
3. Dinner at “Ullu Ullu”: A local dining experience hosted by guide Richard introduced students to Singaporean culinary delights and culture.
Learning Highlights:
a. Insight into the international education systems at NUS.
b. Understanding biodiversity and wildlife conservation through the Night Safari, which was a thrilling experience.
Thought -“CHALLENGES ARE WHAT MAKE LIFE INTERESTING. OVERCOMING THEM IS WHAT MAKES LIFE MEANINGFUL”
A short ferry ride brought the group to Indonesia, then to LOOLA camp, where the focus shifted to outdoor team-building activities and cultural experiences.
1. Tree Climbing : Students learnt physical coordination and teamwork as they scaled trees under expert supervision of the local guides: Dani, Jum, and Dayat
2. Sky Walk : Participants explored elevated pathways, developing confidence and resilience while appreciating nature from above. (Guides: Sudir, Jasri, and Rio)
3. Cocodama Workshop : Students created traditional Japanese plant arrangements, gaining hands-on experience in sustainable practices. (Guides: Hazaur, Man Kecil)
4. Cultural Cooking Class : Students learnt to prepare Indonesian delicacies like spring rolls, onde-onde, and dadar gulung with instructors Elsa, Feby, Puja, Mirna, and Romi. This activity highlighted cultural exchange and the learning of new cuisines.
5. Pizza Making : Guided by Sudir, Dayat, and Romi the students explored the fusion of local and international cuisines through a pizza-making session.
6. Campfire with Dance and Music : The day ended with a lively campfire, fostering camaraderie through dance, music, and storytelling.
Learning Highlights:
a. Development of physical skills, teamwork, and creativity.
b. Exposure to cultural heritage and sustainable practices through cooking and crafts.
1. Kayaking Students learnt water navigation techniques and team coordination while kayaking along scenic waters. (Instructors: Dayat, Rio, Jum, Sudir, Misno, Udin, Wak, Romi, Achmad)
2. Raft Making and Racing : Teams constructed and raced rafts, applying problem-solving and engineering principles
3. Rock Climbing and Flying Fox : These activities boosted confidence, focus, and physical agility. (Instructors: Dayat, Rio, Misno, Udin, Romi, Dedi)
4. Marine Walk : Students explored marine life up close, fostering an appreciation for ocean ecosystems under the expert guidance of the guides: Dayat, Wak, Dedi, Elyas, Udin, and Nikki
5. Firefly Tour : A serene night tour introduced students to fireflies, emphasizing environmental awareness and the importance of preserving natural habitats.
Learning Highlights:
a. Enhancing practical problem-solving and engineering skills.
b. Understanding marine biodiversity and its conservation.
1. Boom Net : This thrilling water activity strengthened team spirit and provided a fun, challenging experience. (Instructors: Thopan, Heri, Jasri, Rio)
2. Return to Singapore : After the activities, the group travelled back to Singapore, reflecting on their experiences in Indonesia. The city tour and shopping were fantastic. The group visited the iconic places of Singapore like Marina Bay Sands, Merlion Park, etc.
Learning Highlights:
a. Development of risk-taking and teamwork skills through outdoor challenges.
Thought - “LET YOUR IMAGINATION RUN WILD. TODAY, EVERY CORNER IS AN ADVENTURE WAITING TO HAPPEN”
1. Universal Studios : Students explored themed attractions and thrilling rides, learning about creativity, storytelling, and technological innovations in entertainment.
2. Return to Abu Dhabi : The group departed from Singapore, cherishing memories of an enriching and adventurous trip. And last but not least – they visited the beautiful Jewel constructed at terminal 1 in Changi Airport.
Overall Feedback
The international trip from Abu Dhabi to Singapore and Indonesia was a well-organized and enriching experience for the participants.
The itinerary combined academic exposure, cultural immersion, and adventurous activities, ensuring that students gained valuable learning opportunities while enjoying themselves.
Key Highlights:
1. Seamless Planning and Execution:
The itinerary was well-balanced, offering a mix of educational tours, cultural activities, and thrilling adventures.
2. Tour Leader :
The tour leader as well as the escort teachers ensured the safety and comfort of all participants.and proactively managed the group and addressed any issues promptly which contributed significantly to the success of the trip.
3. Educational and Cultural Value:
The guided tour of the National University of Singapore was a standout experience, providing students with inspiration and practical knowledge about global education opportunities. The cultural workshops, cooking classes, and marine walk in Indonesia offered unique insights into local traditions and environmental conservation.
4. Adventure Activities:
From tree climbing and flying fox to kayaking and boom net, the adventurous activities were well-supervised, exciting, and fostered teamwork among students. The firefly tour and night safari provided unforgettable encounters with nature and wildlife.
5. Positive Student Engagement:
Students remained actively engaged and participated enthusiastically in all activities, which were both educational and fun experiences. The trip fostered camaraderie, leadership, and personal growth among the students.