Sketch & Draw

School exchange

Adaptation of culture to natural and built environment, and reflection on modern communal relationship

Impact of UNESCO status on Hakka Villages’ development

Chinese heritage deep in remote mountains

• Architecture of Tulou
• Clan and ancestor worship; emphasis on education
• Agricultural way of life
• Traditional peasant’s art

Crystal, Student ( Age 16 ), South Island School

“This trip was truly the best trip I have ever had in my life so far and it was truly a cultural, life changing experience so I just want to thank you for this amazing trip!”

Kieran Ryan, Teacher,  South Island School

“I thought you might appreciate this message ( see right ) from one of the students who went on the trip. I know they don’t always show it, but they truly did have a  fantastic, valuable experience and I think the credit for that belongs solely to your company. So, thanks for all your hard work and I hope we can work with your company again in the future.”

Emma, Student, Age 14

“Our trip to Hakka was a very unique trip, in which I’ve learnt so much about a culture that I had never even heard of. We had learnt how people live, and even got to experience this culture first hand.”

Doug Kane, IB Diploma Programme Coordinator, South Island School

“This trip proves a fantastic range of learning experiences set against a stunning cultural backdrop. Highly recommended.”

Alvina, Student, Age 16

“This trip not only broadened my experiences and view, but also changed the way I looked at other cultures. Before I went to Xiamen, I hadn’t realised how lucky were to have such a good education for granted – I now know that people in other places don’t have access to food schooling, and feel really happy I could help them with their English. Experiencing the village life first hand was an unforgettable cultural experience too and I’d love to go on another trip like this.”

King, Student, Age 14

“It was unique as it was my first time teaching children. The bond I created with the children and the memories would most likely stay with me until I die. This trip allowed me to experience being a teacher and I am ever so grateful to have joined this trip.”

Shirley, Student, Age 16

“This may be cliché, but I have to say that this trip was one of the most memorable experiences of my life. Teaching the local Hakka students for me was certainly the highlight of the trip. I had a spectacular time with them. The Tulou sites were fascinating, exposing us to parts of Hakka culture and history. The views were absolutely breath-taking! I loved the integrated biking expedition: you can never bike like that in HK!”

Danni Li, Teacher, South Island School

"It’s an excellent trip.  It will be an unforgettable experience for the students.  Some activity for students to explore the areas / places to make them active than being a passive listener would be more meaningful."

Fiona Chiu, Student, Age 12

"The Xiamen trip was extremely meaningful to me as it gave me a chance to connect with the culture: Visiting tulous, weaving and picking persimmons.  We also challenged ourselves physically by exploring the region by bike and going on bikes.  Lastly, the teaching experience and communal experience with the local family was unique and special, something that I will remember for a long time."

Helena, Student, Age 13

"I think that this trip is very unique because in just one week I learn so much, not only facts from the past but by observing I understand a lot more about the culture, life styles and religions in China.  Also, I think it is so special because we spend half of the trip experiencing how the countryside is like and the other half spending it by going to the city and museums.  By doing and learning meaningful things in both places, I am able to compare them, countryside life and culture and city life culture.  After comparing, I found the beauty of China a big country that has very different life styles in one place, which should be understandable, respect and learn."