From history and geography, to sustainability, and even communication skills – the International French School’s (Singapore) students’ trip to Bintan proved to be a really holistic learning experience.
Almost every kid would agree that field trips are simply the best. Not only do they get to explore with their peers, kids also get to learn through hands-on experiences – one of the best ways to do so.
A group of students from International French School (Singapore) recently had the chance to go on such a trip to Bintan, Indonesia. This five-day four-night educational trip was intentionally designed to complement their CM2 curriculum in primary school. It included a mangrove boat tour, visiting a sea gypsy village, as well as sports and practical projects – helping students meet curriculum goals through real-world experiences.
Read on to find out what important lessons IFS’ CM2 students picked up from this trip.
1. Environmental science
With mangrove boat tours and guided intertidal walks, you could say that the Bintan trip was a real-life science class for the students. The ten year-olds explored the island’s rich biodiversity: observing the mangrove forest’s unique habitat, studying its flora and fauna, and getting up close and personal with marine life.
2. History, geography, and culture.
The best way to learn about a place’s culture and history is through speaking to the locals themselves. A visit to one of Bintan’s sea gypsy villages gave the kiddos just that. IFS’ students caught a glimpse of the seafaring tribe’s traditional dance and music, and saw local trade in action through the villagers’ fishing and crabbing activities. Students also had the chance to let their creative juices flow through local art techniques, like making watercolour paintings and crafting paper from seaweed.
3. The importance of sustainability
Having witnessed firsthand how mangrove forests protect the island and its rich biodiversity, students understood the need to preserve it. The visit sparked discussions of climate change and what they can do to be kinder to planet earth.
At the same time, the kids also knew that sustainability isn’t just about our physical environment. Interacting with the sea gypsies taught them the importance of preserving local culture, especially that of ethnic minorities. The experience also showed them the beauty of cultural diversity, and how they can embrace and appreciate each other’s differences.
4. Future ready skills
Tours aside, the IFS Bintan trip was also made more exciting with sports, games, and practical projects. From building rafts and sailboats, to kayaking, and delivering presentations – there was never a dull moment during the trip.
Aside from the strength training and basic survival skills learned from raft-building and kayaking, the primary school kids also picked up crucial soft skills like collaboration and communication. As all sports and most projects were group-based, the kids had to learn how to work together to achieve a common goal. Students also developed other skills – such as creative thinking, problem solving, and leadership – which would be useful in the classroom and beyond.
Want this learning experience for your child?
IFS’ Bintan school trip is only one of many that the school has planned for its students. You can find out more about the school and its learning approaches by visiting any of its upcoming open houses or speaking to its Admissions Team. IFS welcomes families of all nationalities, including non-French-speaking children. You can get in touch with the school today to learn more.
This post is in partnership with International French School (Singapore).
