Overseas adventures and unforgettable group trips

Over the October holidays, our students kept busy exploring the world beyond the classroom. Three overseas trips were organised, each with incredible itineraries, memorable moments, and lifelong lessons.

Following in Darwin’s footsteps in the Galapagos

Plunging our students into the world of biology, our Galapagos trip was an eye-opening experience. Over more than two weeks, our travellers embarked on a transformative land-and-sea voyage combining science, culture and ecology.

In Ecuador, students encountered distinct cultures and environments, including indigenous peoples, Inca sites, colonial cities, mangroves and volcanic landscapes.  From the Amazon to the Andes and the Pacific coast, the trip blended cultural experiences with outdoor adventure and ecological awareness.

Naturally, the four-day cruise in the Galapagos Islands was a highlight. Mr Omar Fattah, our passionate biology teacher, guided our students in understanding the diverse wildlife of this unique environment while also reflecting on issues of climate and ecology.

In the words of Darell, our boarding student, “the trip was intense, filled with breath-taking landscapes and knowledge about Darwin’s research. It’s a must-do trip in a lifetime!”.

Discovering tradition and modernity in South Korea

Our boarding students enjoyed a whirlwind adventure in South Korea. For two weeks, they explored the country’s culture, gastronomy and nature.

In the hustle and bustle of Seoul, our boarders discovered both cultural heritage sites and soaring skyscrapers. Through a culinary class, they also got a taste of local gastronomy. And during a fishing excursion, students Hiraki and Miguel even reeled in their own impressive catch!

One of the most memorable moments was certainly the visit to Jeju Island, with its spectacular volcanic landscape. Other highlights included attending the long-running comedy performance Nanta Show – where our boarders Angela and Patricio were invited to go onstage – and enjoying the thrills of Everland theme park. A special mention goes to our student Kimera, who won a giant sky-blue stuffed animal that helped us make new friends wherever we went!

  

Madagascar: A transformative humanitarian experience

Once again, we were delighted to organise our annual humanitarian trip to Madagascar. Through this experience, our travellers had the chance to discover and contribute first-hand to projects of the Collège Champittet Foundation. Upon arrival, our students were warmly welcomed by Father Stefano, a surgeon in charge of the orphanage “La Maison des Enfants”, home to 160 children. At our school in Ambanja, they spent time with the Malagasy pupils, including a lively sports match. They also helped to paint and renovate the facilities of the school and orphanage. In addition, our students discovered the unique fauna of Lemur Island, enjoying a meal on the beach and a dip in the sea.

On the final day, our students bid farewell to the Madagascans and shared an evening dance together. After such moving experiences, this was an emotional gathering. For our young learners, the entire trip has been a transformative journey – one that they continue to reflect upon after their return.