Thailand

2025 Global Connect Trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand

Our largest overseas learning journey to date unfolded over six days and five nights in Chiang Rai, Thailand, where 62 students and 9 staff embarked on a comprehensive cultural and community engagement experience. With the cohort split between two partner institutions—Srinagarindra The Princess Mother School (SWPY) and Phusangwittayakhom School (PWK)—the programme offered an exceptional opportunity to appreciate northern Thai culture, heritage, and traditions.

At both partner schools, our students were warmly welcomed by the Thai educators and students. Instead of traditional classroom immersion, the itinerary focused on a structured series of cultural appreciation workshops designed to deepen understanding of the customs and practices of the Chiang Rai region. Students participated in Loy Krathong crafting to learn the significance of this important festival, created Lanna lanterns to explore the symbolism of light in Lanna culture, and engaged in Muay Thai fitness sessions that introduced them to key techniques of Thailand’s national martial art. They also prepared the traditional Khanom Tian dessert and experienced the Sabad Chai Victory Drum, gaining deeper appreciation of its ceremonial importance. These workshops allowed students to develop meaningful interactions with local peers while experiencing Thai artistic, culinary, and performance traditions firsthand.

Beyond the school-based activities, the group explored several of Chiang Rai’s most notable cultural and historical sites. At the White Temple (Wat Rong Khun), students observed the intricate craftsmanship and contemporary symbolism embedded in its architecture. The Blue Temple (Wat Rong Suea Ten) offered a vivid display of modern sacred design, while the Chiang Rai Skywalk provided sweeping views of the Mekong River and the surrounding borderlands. Visits to the Mae Sai Border and the Golden Triangle exposed students to the dynamics of cross-border exchange and the historical significance of this tri-border region. A respectful visit to the Long Neck Village introduced students to the heritage and artistic traditions of the Karen ethnic community.

A particularly memorable component of the journey was the hands-on culinary experience at Suwanee Cooking School. Here, students learned to prepare Pad Thai and Tom Yam soup, gaining practical exposure to foundational Thai cooking techniques and flavour profiles. Many expressed pride in being able to create full dishes from scratch under the guidance of local instructors.

Managing an overseas trip of this scale, involving 62 students and 9 staff, was a significant milestone for the school. The students demonstrated adaptability, cooperation, and respect throughout the journey, contributing to a smooth and enriching experience for all. This 6D5N Chiang Rai immersion strengthened ties with SWPY and PWK, deepened students’ appreciation of Thai culture, and reinforced the value of overseas experiential learning. It remains a meaningful and formative chapter in their development as globally aware and culturally confident learners. Catch the fun content on our social media! Join us next year for the 2026 trip!

2024 Global Connect Trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand

Our recent 6 days 5 nights overseas trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand was an enriching and unforgettable experience. Known for its stunning landscapes and cultural landmarks, Chiang Rai offered the perfect backdrop for learning and exploration.

The journey began with a warm welcome from our partner school, Srinagarindra The Princess Mother School (SWPY) where we had the opportunity to engage in cultural exchange, fostering friendships and understanding between students from both countries. Activities included joint workshops, where we learned about traditional Thai crafts, music, and dance, enhancing our appreciation of local traditions.

A highlight of the trip was visiting the iconic landmarks of Chiang Rai. We explored the stunning Wat Rong Khun (White Temple), renowned for its intricate architecture. Another memorable stop was the Golden Triangle, a historical site where the borders of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar meet.

The trip also included a visit to the Long Neck Villages, where students learned about the diverse ethnic communities in the region, gaining insights into their unique lifestyles and traditions.

Apart from sightseeing, the trip emphasized personal growth. Students embraced the challenges of adapting to a new environment, building resilience and confidence in the process. The shared experiences brought everyone closer, creating bonds that will last a lifetime.

This journey to Chiang Rai was not just a geographical excursion but a meaningful cultural exchange and learning opportunity. It left all participants with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of Thailand. Join us next year for the 2025 trip!

2023 Global Connect Trip to Chiang Rai, Thailand

Our first ever batch of CCKSians embarked on the school's first overseas trip in November 2023 to Chiang Rai, Thailand. We were excited to bring our Student Councillors to visit their counterparts at Srinagarindra The Princess Mother School Chiang Rai (SWPY) where they we were very warmly welcomed by the staff and students.

The trip was a journey of growth for our CCKSians as they learnt more about themselves and their areas of strength and growth. The highlight of the trip was the interaction with SWPY's students and with the young students of Ban Rong Por Primary School where we worked in partnership with Bukit Merah Secondary School to refurbish the school's library. After Bukit Merah completed the painting, our CCKSians came the following week to install shelving, furniture and books to create a cosy and lovely reading space.

Prior to the trip, our CCKSians spent time using Design Thinking to conceptualise how best to maximise the space to create a conducive learning and reading space for the Ban Ron Por students. They enthusiastically checked in with their primary schools and got preloved books which they sorted out on site. Looking at the happy faces of our young friends, we are glad that our contribution made a positive impact on their lives.

Our CCKSians also got to enjoy quality time with their SWPY peers learning how to make Loy Krathongs and lanterns which were the highlight of the night's festivities. They also enjoyed a drumming lesson, Muay Thai and learnt how to make delicious coconut jelly!

After interacting with their peers, they had fun exploring Chiang Rai's sights and sounds, visiting the sky walk, White Temple, Golden Triangle and border region as well as an exciting cooking class where they learnt how to make Pad Thai and Tom Yum soup!

It was certainly a memorable trip which they will remember for a long time! Join us next year for the 2024 trip!