The Chinese nation has been always adhering to one education motto – “You should read great books and do great travels”. Both reading and traveling are ways to improve culture. They complement each other. For secondary students who are at the important stage of life, in addition to learning textbook knowledge, we encourage them to contact more with nature. Whether through research or expedition, students will be allowed to stimulate their curiosity and potential through personal experience.

20 of our secondary students ventured to Wuxi for their Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition. The Duke of Edinburgh is an international award undertaken by young people between the ages of 14-25 years old all over the world. Highly respected, it is comprised of four different sections, of which, an adventurous journey (expedition) is one. 

Here at Nantong Stalford International School[NTSIS] we should be extremely proud of the fact these 20 students completed their practice adventurous journeys, displaying resilience, determination and courage. Over 2 days the students navigated over 30km through mountainous terrain, using the compass and map skills they have acquired in recent months. In addition to navigating the students were completely self-sufficient, preparing and cooking all their food, carrying their supplies and pitching their tents. This weekend was very challenging for the students and their achievement should be acknowledged and celebrated throughout NTSIS.

“It was very challenging but overall interesting and rewarding” – Year 9 Tony

“We all enjoyed hiking and felt happy. We challenged ourselves and beat ourselves, and we all had a sense of accomplishment.” – Y9 Amy

“This is certainly a holistic education for me – I not only learned from books/learning in school but acquire knowledge from the outdoor education as well. Values such as resilience/determination and being motivated was tested when I am out on my Adventure Journey. It also cultivates leadership, teamwork, self- motivation, communication, self-confidence, thinking and learning abilities.” – Year 11 John