Grade 5 Grow in Sylhet Wilderness

Last week, Grade 5 enjoyed three learning and fun-filled days on the outskirts of Sylhet.

Hosted by Nazimgarh Wilderness Resort, students connected a variety of outdoor and experiential learning opportunities to the Approaches to Learning Skills grown in the classroom.

1. Students explored the pristine Lalakhal area, including by boat towards Zero Point, overlooking the border with India. Marveling at the shifting turquoise and blue water, they inquired as to how sunlight and the water’s depth results in the changing hue.
2. A hike through the nearby Lalakhal Tea Estate was, if challenging, another highlight. Learners seized opportunities to learn more about the tea-growing process and to keep tabs on the amount of steps they had hiked.
3. Prior to the excursion, a series of student-led events had fundraised over 90,000 taka to purchase both sports equipment and uniform to local students in Lalakhal. ISD students tried their hand at a traditional sport, Hari Vaanga, where blindfolded participants have only one attempt to strike and break a pot with a stick. Whether it was beginner’s luck or Grade 5’s natural talent shining through, we were out of pots rather quickly.
4. Parachute games, football and badminton followed, with ISD leading activities for local students. Towards the end of the school day in Sylhet, our students presented the sports equipment and uniform to their new owners.
5. During our time at the resort, Grade 5 made the most of every opportunity to soak up their new surroundings. Educators led art sessions amid the hilltops and riverbanks, a design activity and helped learners to display a wide range of passions in our Talent Show. A BBQ dinner overlooking the village completed an incredibly busy, yet rewarding, trip.

And just like that, Grade 5 and their educators had all boarded their flight bound for Dhaka. This two-night excursion provides Primary’s oldest learners with learning experiences unlikely to be found in our city. On top of that, the short stretch of time away from families, surrounded by friends and teachers, enables students to grow their independence. It is an all-important stepping stone ahead of the Week Without Walls trips which await in Secondary.