LEARNING THROUGH ACTION: SNA’S INSPIRING CAS TRIP TO NORTHERN VIETNAM

At the International Schools of North America (SNA) Saigon South Campus, education extends far beyond classroom walls. Recently, our Diploma Programme (DP) students embarked on an unforgettable CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) expedition to northern Vietnam, where they not only explored culture and nature but also cultivated empathy, teamwork, and personal growth.

What is CAS in the IB Programme?

CAS, short for Creativity, Activity, and Service, is a core component of the IB Diploma Programme. It encourages students to become well-rounded individuals by engaging in experiential learning that promotes critical thinking, collaboration, and social responsibility.

SNA students participate in a variety of CAS experiences throughout the year, but this 3-day trip to Hanoi, Ninh Binh, and Thanh Hoa truly captured the essence of what it means to learn through action.

Fundraising for Impact: A Journey That Begins at Home

Long before they boarded the plane to northern Vietnam, our DP students were already living the CAS spirit on campus through a series of creative fundraising projects. Determined to make their journey not just educational but also impactful, the students organized events such as “Pie a Teacher Day,” bracelet-making workshops, a student-led basketball tournament, carnival-style games, raffles, and even personalized clay commissions. These activities were not only engaging and fun, but they also gave students the opportunity to develop real-world skills in event planning, marketing, and collaboration.

More importantly, the funds raised through these efforts supported a meaningful cause during the trip, providing a lunch service for elderly individuals, orphans, and people with disabilities at the Bao Tro 2 Social Protection Center in Thanh Hoa. The fundraising process helped students understand the importance of purpose-driven action and how small contributions, when combined, can lead to significant change.

Day 1: Creativity & Culture in Bat Trang and Ninh Binh

The journey began with a visit to Bat Trang pottery village, a hub of Vietnamese ceramic art for centuries. Students had the chance to immerse themselves in this traditional craft by molding and painting their own pottery, connecting deeply with Vietnamese culture through hands-on creativity.

In the afternoon, learners teamed up for a scavenger hunt through the ancient landscapes of Ninh Binh, where every clue solved reinforced cooperation, communication, and a spirit of adventure.

Day 2: Activity & Environmental Service in Cúc Phương & Tam Cốc

The second day emphasized physical challenge and environmental responsibility, beginning with a trek through Cúc Phương National Park, Vietnam’s oldest nature reserve. Students learned about biodiversity, conservation, and the impact of human activity on ecosystems.

As part of their Service component, they also participated in tree planting activities, contributing to reforestation efforts and understanding their role in protecting the planet.

Later, the group took to the water for kayaking in Tam Cốc, navigating through majestic limestone caves and rice paddies, a test of both physical endurance and teamwork.

Day 3: Empathy in Action at Bao Tro 2 Center

The final day focused on the Service pillar in its most human form. Students visited Bao Tro 2 Center in Thanh Hoa, a community home for underprivileged children and the elderly.

There, they led interactive sessions involving arts, games, and handmade bracelet making, offering warmth, attention, and joy to those in need. For many students, this moment was the most impactful, teaching them the value of compassion, connection, and shared humanity.

A Grand Finale: Gala Night Celebration

To cap off this transformational experience, SNA hosted a gala evening filled with music, dancing, and food, where students reflected on their journey and celebrated their growth. The night concluded with a spectacular fireworks display, symbolizing the spark they lit, not only in their communities, but within themselves.

Why CAS Matters at SNA

At SNA Saigon South Campus, the CAS programme is more than just a requirement, it’s a philosophy of holistic education. Through carefully designed activities like this trip, students are empowered to apply their learning in real-life contexts, build resilience, empathy, and leadership, and grow into global citizens who are committed to making a positive impact on the world.

As one of the few IB Continuum Schools in Vietnam, SNA is proud to offer authentic experiences that reflect the mission of the International Baccalaureate: developing inquiring, knowledgeable, and caring young people who help to create a better and more peaceful world.