As an educator, I’ve had the privilege of leading my students on a series of transformative service learning trips to Cambodia over the past decade. These immersive experiences have not only allowed us to engage with local communities and contribute to meaningful projects, but have also provided valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and personal growth.

Connecting with Cambodian Communities

My first trip to Cambodia in 2010, taking student from an international school in Shanghai, left a lasting impression on both my students and myself. We had the opportunity to volunteer at a local primary school in the outskirts of Phnom Penn, helping with classroom renovations, organizing educational activities, and leading English language lessons. The warmth and gratitude of the students and teachers we encountered was truly humbling.

Over the years, we have expanded the scope of our service work, collaborating with different community organisations to support initiatives in areas such as sustainable agriculture, public health, and environmental conservation. In 2023, students from the Hong Kong School were able to partner with a local community to begin the process of building a kindergarten just outside Siam Reap. I’ve been back two more times and it won’t be long until it’s complete.

Exploring the Wonders of Angkor Wat

While service learning has been the central focus of our Cambodia trips, we’ve also made sure to immerse ourselves in the country’s rich cultural heritage. No visit to Cambodia would be complete without a trip to the magnificent Angkor Wat, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic landmarks in Southeast Asia.

On our most recent visit in June 2024, we were awestruck by the sheer scale and beauty of the temple complex, wandering through its intricate corridors and climbing to the top of the central tower to witness the breathtaking views. The opportunity to explore this architectural masterpiece and learn about its historical significance has been a highlight for our students time and time again.

Over the years, we have expanded the scope of our service work, collaborating with different community organisations to support initiatives in areas such as sustainable agriculture, public health, and environmental conservation. In 2023, students from the Hong Kong School were able to partner with a local community to begin the process of building a kindergarten just outside Siam Reap. I’ve been back two more times and it won’t be long until it’s complete.