Primary students at BIS Hanoi raise funds for Animals Asia through their persuasive writing project

The community project was initiated following the students’ recent visit to the Tam Dao Bear Sanctuary in Vinh Phuc. There, they gained first-hand knowledge of the rescue and rehabilitation of moon bears and the urgency of wildlife protection. The field trip sparked thoughtful discussions among the students, who were determined to move beyond observation and actively make a difference. 

From classroom reflection to real-world action 

Back in the classroom, teachers guided students to channel their reflections into a formal action plan. As the culminating activity of their persuasive writing unit, Year 6 students drafted formal letters to Ms Cabanne, Head of Primary, proposing a Non-Uniform Day to generate funds for Animals Asia. 

In their compelling proposals, students clearly articulated the event's purpose, detailed the logistical plan, and passionately explained why the cause was personally meaningful. They suggested that Year 5 and 6 students wear animal-themed clothing in exchange for a 50,000 VND donation. To maximise community impact, they also proposed creating a donation box in the school reception area for wider contributions from families and staff. 

Students take the lead in organising the fundraiser 

Once the proposal was enthusiastically approved, the students demonstrated remarkable leadership by preparing every aspect of the event. They worked collaboratively to design engaging promotional posters, draft school-wide announcements, and decorate the dedicated donation box. 

The donation box itself became a creative project, covered in bear-inspired artwork and constructed from recycled materials collected by the students. To connect the campaign directly to their learning, excerpts from their original persuasive letters were displayed alongside the box to inspire contributions from the school community. 

Throughout the process, teachers provided careful guidance and constructive feedback, helping students refine their communication skills while encouraging them to take full ownership of the campaign. The experience allowed them to see, in concrete terms, how their writing and teamwork could create a tangible, positive impact. 

Building empathy, confidence, and global citizenship 

Juni (Year 6) shared in her letter “This initiative will achieve three meaningful goals: it will help the sanctuary rescue more bears from cruel and unsafe conditions, it will allow us to enjoy a fun and creative day at school, and it will show leadership by inspiring students and others to work together for an important cause.”  

By linking literacy learning with social responsibility, the project encouraged empathy, creativity, and leadership – core skills that reflect the BIS Hanoi commitment to nurturing compassionate global citizens who actively care about their local and global community. 

A successful day for a meaningful cause 

The Non-Uniform Day brought a palpable sense of excitement and pride to the primary school. Students arrived dressed in their animal-themed outfits, eagerly shared what they had learned about bear welfare, and encouraged their peers and teachers to contribute. 

All funds collected were successfully given to Animals Asia Vietnam to support their ongoing, critical work protecting rescued bears. 

At BIS Hanoi, collaborative community projects like this highlight the power of purposeful learning. Our students proved that with compassion, collaboration, and the power of the written word, even small actions can create meaningful, life-changing results.