Mingalabar from Myanmar!
Today was an action-packed introduction to the people and ancient culture in Bagan. After a big breakfast, the group was split in two. The first group embarked on a short boat journey to a neighbouring island as part of the service element of the trip, while the other half enjoyed a scenic bike ride around the beautiful pagodas.
The service on the island involved deconstructing the fence around the local primary school and making concrete posts for the new one. Everyone got really stuck in and pulled together as a team. Here are some of the comments from students:
- The lifestyle in Myanmar is totally different. I really enjoyed seeing how the people live here.
- My joints ache after making the cement, but it's something I've never done before.
- The people on the island are so friendly, even though they don't have much.
- I really liked that we were helping a school. It's made me reflect on our own school and how lucky we are.
- I can't wait for tomorrow!
Regards,
Jennifer Mahoney
Subject Leader Science and 11D Form Tutor
The second activity group visited the local market in order to experience the diverse and complex cultures of Myanmar. Through a competitive 'scavenger hunt', pupils navigated the bustling side streets of the market, evidencing their explorations with a range of photographs including: zodiac engravings, unusual fruits, folklore puppets, festival masks, exquisite lacquered boxes, fresh fish, tea shops and sweet stalls. Following a quick game of Chinlone (a game similar to volleyball, but played with and cane ball and the feet), we toured the magnificent temples of the region by bike. Pupils were able to look at three of the largest and impressive examples in detail, but didn't quite have time to take in all 2000+! After watching the sunset over the temple-strewn landscape, we enjoyed a wonderful al fresco meal on the shores of the Irrawaddy river.
Jonathan Cotterill
Subject Leader English and 10C Form Tutor