Lessons That Go Further
This year’s Global Learning and Adventure trips took students far beyond the classroom, immersing them in diverse cultures and environments. The trips to Costa Rica, Denmark, Japan, the Canary Islands, and British Columbia and the Yukon, which took place during Intersession Week, offered a unique blend of adventure, education, and personal growth.
In Costa Rica, students embraced “pura vida” through hands-on conservation work, cultural exchange, and community service. From rainforest hikes and wildlife encounters to learning from the Bribri community and contributing to local initiatives, students deepened their understanding of sustainability and the importance of stewardship. “It felt good knowing we were contributing something meaningful instead of just visiting,” say student bloggers John and Hugo.
In Denmark, the focus shifted to innovation and urban sustainability. Students explored Copenhagen’s forward-thinking design, engaged with local entrepreneurs, and examined how cities can balance livability with environmental responsibility. Experiences such as cooking at an urban farm, participating in a zero-waste challenge, and touring cutting-edge facilities like CopenHill highlighted the possibilities of sustainable living. Michael and Tyler were both impressed by a “free” kayak rental shop. “It rents out kayaks to people who collect a certain amount of litter from the city streets and canals,” they shared in their blog entry. “You can then take a peaceful kayak trip along the Danish canals.”
Japan offered a powerful blend of history, tradition and modernity. Reflecting on their visit to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial, Evan and Michael shared this in their trip blog: “We saw real-life visuals to match the stories we’d heard, including clothing and artifacts from those who didn’t make it and depictions through sketches made by those who did.” The group also engaged in cultural practices such as calligraphy, temple ceremonies, and traditional cooking. Navigating language barriers and cultural norms encouraged adaptability, while shared moments, from karaoke nights to group meals, strengthened connections.
The Canary Islands experience emphasized environmental science and collaboration. Students conducted marine research, participated in conservation efforts, and observed wildlife in its natural habitat. On one boat trip, they were lucky enough to see an assortment of marine life. “The real spectacle was the striped dolphins,” said one student in a blog entry. “They’re seen around Tenerife only a few days each year while they migrate through. We were lucky enough to spot them jumping in and out of the water.” Climbing Mount Teide and debating the impacts of tourism challenged students to think critically about human interaction with the environment while building teamwork and resilience.
Closer to home, the BC and Yukon trip fostered outdoor leadership and cultural awareness. Canoeing expeditions, camping, and wilderness survival skills pushed students outside their comfort zones, while visits to museums and Indigenous learning experiences deepened their appreciation for Canada’s history and natural beauty. After a paddle to Porpoise Bay, the boys enjoyed an educational walk through the forest and saw a moon jellyfish on the beach. In his blog post, John shared how “the translucent specimen was beautifully shimmering in the sunlight.”
Across all trips, students built lasting bonds through challenges and experiences. Whether navigating a new city, collaborating on service projects, or simply reflecting together at the end of a long day, these journeys cultivated confidence, empathy, and a broader worldview.
Please visit the trip blogs here and experience the adventures through our students’ eyes:
