A day of reflection

Today was our last day in Singapore, we woke up fairly early. Early is 7am (which isn't so early, unless you have been doing it for a fortnight with late bedtimes). As a group many of us went down for breakfast dumplings a tradition that I for one will miss terribly!

We arrived at Changi memorial early in the day, the students were both respectful and caring - taking the time to carefully explore each exhibit and learn about part of our shared history. If you ever get the chance it's certainly worth a look, but do watch how many of the letters you read and photos you look at. It is confronting, highly emotional and necessary. The students certainly gave the experience and the history the respect it deserves which is a testament to the maturity that the group is capable of showing. This is something that would be highlighted again later that day.

As you may recall our intention was to go swimming atop 3 skyscrapers - unfortunately we learnt that this is a privilege afforded to guests only. As a group we went to the markets in Orchard, each student was given $10, they had to provide food for the rest of the group to share, within a time frame. In a style that would put most first year arts students to shame they arrived with fruit, soft drink, sandwiches and fresh meats. We sat in the gardens and had a picnic then explored the park.

At our agreed time, we meet as a group and faced the problem of 'Poolgate' rather than the teachers make the decision, the students took charge, half wanted to return to Geylang and explore, others wanted to return to Sentosa. The next 30 minutes or so would have made Socrates proud and in the end was a fine metaphor for the current australian political climate a hung parliament with impassioned debates on both sides.

In the end the group decided that the majority makes the decision and those who choose not to vote voted with the majority by default. Authentic learning at its best!

The afternoon was spent exploring Geylang and packing for out flights later tonight back to KL.
Tonight we went out for dinner at the nearby dumpling restaurant. Students ate Siu mai, Char siu baau amongst many other dishes!

After dinner the group presented both Lucas and Declan with tokens of appreciation for their efforts in getting the program off the ground. An intricate hand painted glass dome made at the local market. Each dome took two weeks to paint and create by hand.

Students took turns reflecting on fond memories of the camp and shared experiences.

The students have been sensational ambassadors both for their school and for their country. Many of them have reflected on how they have grown more confident about being able to navigate a foreign country, talk to locals, develop self esteem and explore ideas such as the price of luxury is and how race and religion can shape identity- amongst many other elements. We will all have wonderful memories. Thanks for following our post!

Please plan on receiving tired, amazing a slightly more travelled kids back on Thursday/Friday.

Cheers
Matt T on behalf of the crew.