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.

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The Importance of Nutritious Meals in Education

Well-balanced meals are directly linked to improved concentration, cognitive function, and energy levels—factors that are crucial for effective learning. At SNA Saigon South Campus, we recognize this connection and places a strong emphasis on providing nutritious meals as part of our holistic approach to education. Over the years, we have cooperated with leading food suppliers in Vietnam, with a rigorous selection process to ensure that the food supplier can provide a long-term – stable – large quantity of meals that meets the criteria of delicious – safe – balanced nutrition for students at each level. This collaboration ensures that every meal served is aligned with international standards of nutrition, hygiene, and food safety.

Starting this school year, SNA community will enjoy a new serving model with 3 food concepts and a dedicated set menu. Every day, students will have access to the 3 stations: Vietnamese, Western and Special Asian cuisines. The meal program at SNA Saigon South Campus is carefully designed to cater to the dietary needs of students at different age levels. The menus are crafted with the expertise of nutritionists, ensuring a balance of macronutrients—carbohydrates, proteins, and fats—along with essential vitamins and minerals.

• Breakfast: The day begins with a nutritious breakfast, which includes a variety of whole grains, fresh fruits, and protein-rich options like eggs or yogurt. This combination is designed to kickstart students’ metabolism and provide sustained energy throughout the morning.
• Lunch: Lunch options are varied and include lean proteins such as chicken, fish, or tofu, accompanied by a colorful array of vegetables and whole grains like brown rice or quinoa. These meals are designed to be both satisfying and nutrient-dense, helping students stay focused and energized for the rest of the school day.
• Snacks: Healthy snacks, including fruits, nuts, and whole-grain options, are available during breaks. These snacks are carefully selected to avoid high sugar content, ensuring that students maintain steady energy levels without the crashes associated with sugary foods.
• Dietary Accommodations: Understanding that students have diverse dietary needs, the program also includes options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets, ensuring that every student, teachers and staff can enjoy a nutritious meal that meets their specific requirements.

Sustainability and Food Safety: A Top Priority

SNA Saigon South Campus places a strong emphasis on sustainability and food safety, which aligns with the values of its school. Our chefs prioritize sourcing ingredients locally whenever possible, supporting local farmers and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation. Moreover, food safety is paramount. SNA adheres to stringent food safety protocols, ensuring that all meals are prepared in a clean, safe environment. This commitment to safety is particularly important in a school setting, where the health of students is the top priority.

Positive Impact on Student Life

The nutritious meals program at SNA Saigon South Campus has a profound positive impact on student life. By providing balanced meals, the program enhances academic performance, enabling students to focus better, retain information more effectively, and excel in their studies. The diet rich in essential nutrients also supports physical health, promoting growth and keeping students active and healthy. Additionally, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in mental well-being, helping to stabilize moods and reduce stress levels. Altogether, the program contributes to a holistic approach to student development, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally.

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Here’s what Mrs. Ko Eun Kyung, esteemed parent of Kim Hyoju (Grade 10) said about her child’s learning experience at SNA:

? “When I first visited the school, which I had known through a lot of research and through acquaintances, the spacious facilities and the learning environment here were the 2 main things that captured my heart. In addition, the teachers and staff treated me very kindly. They all have great qualifications and characteristics, which makes me trust them to take care of my child’s education.”

? We are grateful to our wonderful parents for strongly supporting the efforts of the entire SNA community. To read more parent testimonials, please visit: https://sna.edu.vn/snas-parent/

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At SNA, along with theoretical lessons, practical and hands-on experiments/activities are always integrated into the IB programmes regularly and throughout the school year.

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The Primary Years Programme (PYP) Exhibition is a celebration of the knowledge, skills, and attributes that Grade 5 students have developed throughout PYP.
Students engage in collaboration, transdisciplinary inquiry process in identifying, investigating, and offering solutions to real-life issues or problems. It is a process that involves students starting with their personal interests, narrowing down their research while working together as a team, and using the inquiry cycle to independently learn.
In addition to independent learning and giving full agency to the students, each student discovers personality traits that they rely on using the Learner Profile and the Approaches to Learning through constant reflection while working on this Exhibition.
This Exhibition is a wonderful celebration and learning experience for the students, teachers, and the whole school community.

SNA 360° series consists of the most compact and authentic footage that covers many aspects of the school, from IB-related academic events to exciting activities happening on and off-campus.

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