By Gearoid McCormack
Primary Homeroom Teacher
Just before the Pchum Ben holiday, our Grade 5 students embarked on an unforgettable ALC (Active Learning Community) trip to the stunning Smiling Gecko Farmhouse Resort in Kampong Chhnang Province, Cambodia. This immersive experience beautifully showcased how meaningful growth happens both inside and outside the classroom—blending education, adventure, and personal development in a truly inspiring way.
Building Independence and Confidence
From the moment we arrived, our Grade 5 learners embraced the opportunity to demonstrate their growing independence. They took charge of their own luggage, organized shared living spaces, and supported one another in adapting to their new environment. These moments of self-management were a powerful reflection of the life skills they’ve been developing throughout the year.
Nature Walks and Inquiry-Based Learning
Each morning began with invigorating walks through the local countryside. These walks sparked curiosity and inquiry, encouraging students to ask questions and explore the natural world around them. From observing wildlife to encountering a very relaxed snake, our young explorers stepped outside their comfort zones and into a world of discovery.
Farm-to-Table Dining: A Lesson in Sustainability
One of the highlights of the trip was the farm-to-table dining experience. Students enjoyed a variety of delicious, locally sourced meals while learning about sustainable food production. The resort’s commitment to organic farming and responsible sourcing provided a valuable lesson in environmental stewardship and healthy living.
Exploring the Resort’s Facilities
Our tour of the Smiling Gecko facilities was both educational and eye-opening. Students visited:
Organic vegetable farms
A fish farm
A carpentry workshop
A local school
A (very smelly!) slurry site
Each stop offered insights into sustainable living, vocational training, and community development—core values that align with our educational mission.
Evening Activities and Talent Showcase
Evenings were filled with fun and relaxation. Students participated in swimming, photography, volleyball, insect hunting, journaling, and even hosted their own Grade 5 Talent Show. These activities fostered creativity, teamwork, and self-expression in a joyful and supportive setting.
A Bittersweet Farewell and a Final Surprise
After two adventure-packed days and nights, the final morning brought mixed emotions—sadness to leave, but excitement to return home. Students once again showed responsibility by packing their own bags and preparing their own lunches for the journey.
Before heading back to NISC, we made a surprise stop at Oudong Temple, where students climbed the steps and were rewarded with a well-deserved ice cream. The sight of the school gates brought cheers and tired smiles—just as wide as those of the smiling gecko.
Why Trips Like These Matter
Experiences like the Grade 5 ALC trip are more than just fun getaways—they’re opportunities for students to grow, connect, and learn in real-world settings. From developing independence to deepening their understanding of sustainability and community, this trip was a powerful reminder of the transformative power of experiential learning.
