Week Without Walls Exemplifies Risk-Taking and Caring IB Learner Profile Attributes

Students in grades 7 through 10 recently returned from successful Week Without Walls trips with grades 7 and 8 spending the week in Chiang Mai, Thailand, grade 9s in Siem Reap, Cambodia, and grade 10s in Tioman, Malaysia. Students on Week Without Walls trips demonstrated the IB learner profile attribute as Risk-Takers:

“We approach uncertainty with forethought and determination; we work independently and cooperatively to explore new ideas and innovative strategies. We are resourceful and resilient in the face of challenges and change.”

For many students it was their first time on a Week Without Walls trip and their first time traveling without parents. Each trip had its own mix of challenges, physical and emotional, and I am very proud of their determination and resilience in overcoming challenges and making the most of each experience. Parents too are risk-takers in trusting their child/children on Week Without Walls trips- we are appreciative of their support and for the opportunity to help students grow outside of the classroom.

Trip leaders exemplified the IB learner profile attribute of Caring:

“We show empathy, compassion and respect. We have a commitment to service, and we act to make a positive difference in the lives of others and in the world around us.”

Throughout the trip students needed compassion, empathy, empowerment, and support and the teacher leaders were consistently there to help students when they needed it- we are extremely grateful to the teachers who put so much time and effort into caring for students during Week Without Walls.

Chris Boyle
Secondary Principal