28th November 2017
While thousands of students across the country celebrate the end of 13 years of school at “Schoolies Week” parties, a group of 12 Girton Grammar students travelled with two teachers to Thailand and Cambodia to lend a hand and to immerse in Asian culture.
The specially designed trip is for graduating Year 12 students and has become affectionately known as the ‘alternative schoolies’ trip.
Head of Community Service at Girton Grammar School, Mrs Rachelle Fisher, said that many students want to finish their school journey on a positive note with friends, but not in the traditional party scene.
“This Year 12 trip is part of Girton Grammar School’s Community Service programme and involves travelling to Cambodia to explore Phnom Penh, followed by Pattaya in Thailand, to work with the Father Ray Foundation.
“The trip offers students the chance to be with one another in a meaningful way, which the students find immensely satisfying.
“It’s a really positive and safe way to round out thirteen years of school life,” Mrs Fisher said.
Girton Grammar School has established a strong relationship with the Father Ray Foundation, which provides essential services, care and hope for over 850 underprivileged and disadvantaged children. The Foundation provides a home, an education, nutritious meals, medical assistance and the opportunity for children and students to reach their full potential and become independent.
“Students will spend the majority of their time with the Father Ray Foundation, assisting and visiting schools and farms run by the organisation.
“The contribution of the students includes teaching English, Music lessons and Sports coaching.
“The trip endeavours to perpetuate real, practical and ongoing assistance to organisations such as the Father Ray Foundation.
“The students also spend time sight-seeing and learning about Thailand and Cambodia. They always find the trip both enjoyable and rewarding,” Mrs Fisher said.
Above:
Donating stationery at Silk Road school in Cambodia
Above:
Sightseeing in Phenom Penh
