Learning should not restrict to books and pen inside school, but through observation, exploration and experimentation. Keeping this in mind, students of GIIS Balestier were treated to an array of events, on 16th and 26th of October. Aptly named Escapade 2017, the programs aimed at exposing students to various topics beyond their curriculum, to widen their horizon of knowledge. They learned about the culture and history of Singapore through two exhibitions, Lotus Sutra and Maritime Trails.

The Lotus Sutra exhibition at the Arts House, underscored the key message of the Lotus Sutra, which focus on the intrinsic equality of human beings, regardless of gender, race, language or religion, thereby strengthening the possibility of a world of peaceful coexistence and harmony. Students had an enriching journey understanding the life of Gautama Buddha and about applying the Buddhist concepts in day to day life. They also saw some of the rare manuscript replicas and artifacts at the exhibition.

Singapore Maritime Trail exposed the students to the heritage story of the progress of Singapore’s maritime industry through a guided tour of historical landmarks. The students went on a learning adventure through iconic landmarks rooted in Singapore’s maritime heritage.

“Butterfly sharing” organized by the personnel from Cozy Garden Bukit Batok gave the students a chance to learn about the various stages of butterfly lifecycle. The opportunity to see and touch live pupa and cocoon incited their interest and helped to increase their awareness about the nature around them.

The “Best out of Waste “session taught the students about upcycling and recycling. As part of this activity, students learnt to make containers with old newspaper. They were so encouraged by the whole activity that they vouched to make better use of things around them.

Brain Gym was organized to teach the students, the age-old method of using Abacus, to do mathematical calculations. The various hands on and written activities excited their interest and curiosity.

The day was fun filled for parents too. Parents were treated to a relaxing session of meditation, learning first-hand about the nuances of meditation. The students on their part treated their parents by putting up various presentations show casing their learning of the day.

The day ended with a sumptuous dinner, which students enjoyed with their family and friends. The day had definitely left an indelible mark in the memory of each student.