Thai massage, Temple visits and Thai Boxing were just some of the once-in-a-lifetime experiences given to Cornish students on an unforgettable school trip recently.
Students and staff from Camborne Science and International Academy (CSIA) travelled to Thailand for a cultural exchange.
"It was the most incredible trip; we did so much. The students got a real flavour for Thai life and culture," said Miss Steph Ormerod, Head of Economics at CSIA. "Our students stayed with host families, joined in the school community, took part in lessons, attended assemblies and worked with their peers on educational projects. It was truly fantastic."
The visit was hosted by Mahidol Wittayanusorn School as part of CSIA's revered school exchange programme. "Students arrived at the school on Halloween, despite it not being widely celebrated in Thailand, the host school put on an excellent Halloween-themed welcome assembly.
"Our students and staff dressed up and took part in an outfit competition, followed by Halloween games led by the Thai students, they had clearly put outstanding efforts into their costumes for us."
Over the course of the ten days students took part in lessons around the school, such as Chemistry, Thai Boxing, traditional Art and an introduction to the Thai language. The students even helped out in an English language class to help their hosts with speaking and listening.
Throughout the exchange, the group were taken on various trips which included visits to The Grand Palace in Bangkok, Wat Pho; the temple of the reclining Buddah and to the University of Traditional Thai Medicine.
"As well as learning many new things in school, we went on a wide variety of day trips to see and learn about Thailand and the rich history and culture," Miss Ormerod said.
"This was the students first insight to just how magnificent the palaces and temples around Thailand are. Another best bit was definitely the cooking class, the students made the most delicious Pad Thai."
After an action-packed visit there were some tearful goodbyes. Year 10 student Amber Barnes said "I've made a friend for life, even though she lives on the other side of the world we will stay in touch."
Lily Hawkins, Year 10, said: "I think it's one of the best things I've done in my life so far."
Miss Ormerod added: "The students were all extremely sad to leave their new friends, but all agree they have had the best time and have made memories they will remember forever."
Principal at CSIA, Ian Kenworthy, said: "Trips like this help our young people to rise to new challenges, promote personal, social and emotional development and enable our young people to become adaptable and confident individuals.
"Our students were a credit to CSIA and took part in every opportunity with enthusiasm. Our Host school were fantastic, and it was brilliant to see students from across the globe socialising and working together."
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