China, South Korea and Thailand - just a few of the countries students at Camborne Science and International Academy have visited recently on once-in-a-lifetime school trips.

In the past few months alone, students at CSIA have visited Busan in South Korea, Bangkok in Thailand and Beijing, China.

“We are very proud to be continually expanding our revered international programme here at CSIA,” said International Education Coordinator, Paula Tippett.

“Every year, we’re offering new and exciting opportunities for our students to take part in – to enjoy all the benefits of cultural and educational exchange.”

“In Beijing, four of our sixth formers were immersed in Chinese culture on an exchange with the Experimental School of Beijing, spending 11 days with a host family, experiencing the education system, cultural practices, the country’s rich history, wonderful landmarks and of course, the Chinese cuisine!” commented Jo Greet, English Coordinator at CSIA.

Another trip, led by English and Drama teacher Daniel Batson, took nine Year 10 and 11 students to north western Thailand to experience high level Maths and Science lessons alongside some of Asia’s most gifted young people.

“It’s about introducing our students to the increasing global world and educate them in a different culture” commented Mr Batson. “Mahidol Wittayanusorn School (MWITS) is the first specialised science school to be founded in Thailand, homing 240 talented scientists and mathematicians. To be able to offer our students opportunities like this, is very rewarding and potentially life-changing for our young people.”

The trips have a “long-lasting impact” on the students, with many choosing to work abroad when they leave College or University. “Our students are always blown away by the different cultures and experiences they have when they are part of our international programme. When we offer such diverse, worldwide opportunities, it means students are on a continuous journey of exploration – constantly developing as individuals and reaping the benefits of travel and new experiences” commented Miss Tippett.

Kathryn Finn, Head of Geography teacher at CSIA, recently led a trip to South Korea for a memorable, ten-day trip with six students. “They took part in lessons at the revered Korean Science Academy in Busan, conducted presentations and enjoyed challenging research sessions” said Mrs Finn. “One of the key elements of this exchange was to learn about the country’s incredible culture – our students dressed in Korean National Costumes and explored common traditions, including why the Koreans have such respect for their elders.”

“Here at CSIA, we place tremendous importance on international travel – it helps us all learn so much about the world, develop new skills and contributes to self-improvement as students are pushed outside their comfort zone, helping them to become more competent, knowledgeable and confident individuals who have a global network of contacts” commented Miss Tippett.

“We aim to support our young people to rise to new challenges, promote personal, social and emotional development and enable our students to become adaptable and confident individuals” said Principal at CSIA, Ian Kenworthy. “This lays strong foundations for successful learning and achievement in all areas. We’re very proud of our Academy’s international programme and it’s wonderful to see how much our students enjoyed their recent visits to China, Thailand and South Korea.”