Amidst the unsettled weather of November, our Middle School Grade 6 students set off for a two-day overnight course trip themed, ‘Independent Youngsters’. At the end of the course, students had a lot to share with their family and friends. Take a guess! What questions did family and friends most want to hear the answers to?
It was not “Did you have fun?” because Grade 6 students know that the significance of the course is far beyond pleasure and leisure.
The first question they wanted to hear an answer to was:
“Were you able to cope without your parents?”
Their answer: “Yes, I did!”
“Do you feel grateful for how your parents care for you?”
Their answer: “Yes, I do!”
The Egg Protection campaign reminds us of the time when we were as delicate as eggs. We cannot grow up safely without the daily and nightly care of our parents. In addition, when we were young, we did not understand that the delicious food on the table at home every day did not magically appear but arrived as a result of diligent hands, time and effort.
The third question they wanted to hear an answer to was:
“Did you contribute to your team when you were facing difficulties?”
Their answer: “Yes, I did!”
We started the team building activities as soon as the Opening Ceremony was over. From that time on, if there was just one person who sat idle, enjoying the fruits of others’ work, problems arose. The activities strengthened our collective cohesion, and everyone was proud to contribute to the team.
“Did you learn how to manage and control yourself in the large group?”
Their answer: “Yes, I did!”
“Who gets the top bunk and who gets the bottom bunk in the dorm?” “What if I don’t get enough of your favourite dishes?” “Who should we listen to in group activities?” “Who will be the assistant when we make a campfire?” Over the course of the two days, thought-provoking questions like, “Should we be self-centered or not?” were asked. It is not a bad thing to participate in debates or discussions, but it is a problem when we argue over meaningless issues. The teachers enlightened students with patience, and the trainers instructed students with careful guidance. Together, minor flaws were fixed and greater happiness embraced.
The fifth question they wanted to hear an answer to was:
“Did you break any rules or embarrass yourself?
Their answer: “No, I did not.”
Thanks to the moral education provided to the Grade 6 students and the detailed pre-trip education from their class tutors, students were fully aware of the rules and safety precautions for participating in the various curricular activities such as making of a campfire, baking sweet potatoes, or putting up tents. These course activities not only challenged students’ practical abilities, but also tested their ability to collaborate and cooperate with each other.
The Grade 6 students have been given the task of expressing in written English their thoughts about the trip. We all look forward to reading and enjoying their feedback and stories of growth.
