Have you ever wondered about the significance of a Week Without Walls? For those deeply rooted in our Hoi An International School’s educational ethos, it transcends mere words – it exemplifies our unwavering commitment to immersive education. The Week Without Walls (WWW) embodies our dedication, offering students a distinctive opportunity to break free from classroom constraints and engage in learning through service, action, and exploration.

Education extends beyond the classroom walls; it’s a dynamic journey that reaches far and wide. Week Without Walls enriches learning by immersing students in cultural awareness, community spirit, leadership, and teamwork. This unique opportunity connects classroom lessons with real-world experiences, fostering personal and professional growth. Experiential learning through our thoughtfully designed trips and workshops is pivotal in educating students about our global society. Witnessing these circumstances instilled a drive to contribute positively and highlighted the significance of lending a helping hand to those in need.

Let’s delve deeper into our HAIS students’ journey during the latest Week Without Walls.

Year 7 and Year 8 Journey to Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park

Our Year 7 and Year 8 students embarked on an enriching journey to Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Quang Binh province. Surrounded by majestic limestone karsts, Phong Nha offered a plethora of hikes and caves for exploration. Our young adventurers immersed themselves in the wonders of this natural haven, exploring magnificent caves and marvelling at the breathtaking scenery.

They also enjoyed a day at Ozo Park, where they paddled serenely on tranquil waters and ziplined through lush treetops, adding an exciting dimension to their experience. The adventure culminated with thrilling sledging at Quang Phu Sand Dunes and a captivating exploration of the historic ‘underground city’ of Vinh Moc.

Throughout the trip, our young explorers immersed themselves in learning about heritage sites, explored nature, tackled challenges, and strengthened teamwork.

Year 9 History/Service Learning Trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia

Meanwhile, our Year 9 students embarked on their History/Service Learning trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, returning with extraordinary experiences. They trekked to the summit of Phnom Kulen Mountain, discovered the mystical Thousand Linga River, cycled through the historic Angkor Complex, and immersed themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Siem Reap. Additionally, they enjoyed a mesmerising Apsara dance performance during dinner, further immersing themselves in Cambodia’s vibrant traditions.

Before the trip, the class diligently fundraised by selling ice cream after school on Fridays and participating in the HAIS FUN’d Run event, raising just over 10 million VND. This money was used to build basketball hoops and purchase sporting equipment for Tbeng Junior High School, located in a village near Siem Reap.

Visiting Tbeng Junior High School left a profound impact on the Year 9 students, who not only witnessed the tangible results of their efforts but also engaged in a friendly basketball match with the local students. The enthusiasm and gratitude expressed by the Cambodian students were inspiring, making this visit a standout moment for several HAIS students.

Senior Students’ Outward Bound Trip

Immersed in the Outward Bound trip, our senior students from Year 10 to Year 13 pushed their limits with a rigorous program. They hiked through challenging terrains, navigated diverse landscapes, and enjoyed sea kayaking in stunning waters. Their resilience and teamwork throughout the journey have been truly inspiring.

A Week Without Walls provides our students with invaluable opportunities to forge strong and meaningful friendships while honing essential team-building and leadership skills. By traveling beyond the school grounds, they immerse themselves in diverse cultures, engage in activity-based learning, and contribute to community service initiatives. This experiential approach not only enriches their academic journey but also nurtures their personal growth and global awareness. We are immensely proud of our students for embracing these unique experiences and stepping out of their comfort zones. Let’s continue to learn, explore and seize these incredible opportunities together!