What a rollercoaster of highs and lows today has been. Some students started the day with much trepidation as VCAA released results for Unit 3/4 subjects. All of the students should be justifiably proud of their academic achievements, yet a trip like this also serves as a reminder of the richness and diversity of experience that underpins a true education as a citizen of the world.
We set out for Green Gecko with enthusiasm and exuberance in our stride, and also a little apprehension, knowing that this would be the last day to spend with the larger group of Green Gecko students. We had been briefed by Liz yesterday about the importance of a smooth separation, especially for some of these children who have experienced trauma or separation so early in their young lives.
With this in mind, we fully immersed ourselves in the moment, enjoying cultural immersion activities led by the youngest Geckos, including counting in Khmer, writing our names in Khmer, and the traditional martial art of bokator. Liz from Green Gecko is very deliberate in the way that these activities are delivered, allowing some of the youngest children to act as teachers and empowering them to communicate their knowledge in the way they see fit.
It was wonderful to see the Camberwell girls participating so enthusiastically and showing such initiative, as has been characteristic of their mindset throughout the trip. For me personally (Nirvana), today held a special significance, as my own family arrived in Cambodia yesterday and Liz invited my children to participate in the cultural immersion activities alongside the CGGS students. After participating in 3 previous tours and developing a personal connection to the staff and students at Green Gecko, I have always relished how enriching the experience is for your daughters – the CGGS tour participants. To have the opportunity to appreciate this further, from my perspective as a parent, was truly special – what a great opportunity these young people have had – yours and mine.
The farewells at Green Gecko were emotional as predicted and we departed with full and heavy hearts. Continuing with the tour itinerary, we visited Plastic Free Southeast Asia in the afternoon and heard about the origins and problem of plastic pollution in Cambodia, as well as learning about some innovative organisations working to overcome it, and the steps we can take as individuals to minimise waste.
We had a special treat in the afternoon, as there was some spare time and a definite need to lift spirits, so we split into two groups and alternated between fulfilling Christine’s bucket list goal of drinking coconut water from fresh coconuts, and enjoying some downtime at Sugar Spa Siem Reap. Describing themselves as a business providing ‘pampering with purpose’ the students enjoyed the chance to reflect on their experiences and indulge in some self-care.
Tomorrow we have the Green Gecko market challenge, where the students will be competing in groups to purchase some items on behalf of Green Gecko from the local Psau Lar market – with the added complication that they will be paying – and bargaining in Cambodian riel!
Tomorrow afternoon we check out of our hotel and head to the Kulen Mountain homestay. We will be away from internet service while there, so please don’t be surprised or concerned if you do not hear from us again until Sunday.
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