14 Jul, BMC — We’re halfway the school year and finally the day for our school trip has arrived! This year the middle school and high school had the chance to explore more about the richness of Khmer history. Through this activity, the students had the chance to witness and experience the various places and historical concepts that they have learned through their classes.
Angkor Wat Grand Circuit — a total of 178 middle school students were divided into six (6) small groups; each group escorted by one to two teachers and a tour guide. These students were set for a whole day excursion following the routes to visit the grand circuit temples: Preah Khan, Banteay Prei, Neak Pean, Pre Rup, and East Mebon. As the students marveled around the uniqueness of each and every temple, they also got the chance to ask and discuss with their friendly tour guides about the ancient way of living, the background of every structure, the reigning kings and empires, and present significance of the temples. The students also completed their worksheets whilst enjoying the magnificent beauty and history of the entire complex. At the end of the tour, the students enthusiastically answered the quick quiz facilitated our tour guides.
Museum Hopping — Grades 10 and 11 students had a glimpse of the rise and fall and recovery of Cambodia through their visits in Angkor National Museum, War Museum, and Mindol Metta Karuna. First stop, Angkor National Museum – the students were able to witness the rich and excellent presentation of Khmer empire, the major kings, Angkor Wat, and Angkor Thom. Then, the students continued their journey back in history, treading down Cambodia’s darkest years through the sights of war vehicles, artillery, and old photos exhibited in Siem Reap War Museum. Lastly, the students had an interactive session at Mindol Metta Karuna as they listened, discussed, and reflected on several significant events in Cambodia’s modern history and on how to build peace, to care for creation, to respect the dignity of each person, and to help those in need.
As a whole, most students found the entire school trip experience positive and meaningful from a cultural and educational point of view. The students went back to Sisophon with hearty smiles and wonderful stories to share with their family and friends. Follow more about our students’ personal sharing through our newsletter in August.