This summer, 14 students from Woodham Academy went on a life changing trip to Thailand. Woodham’s Thailand Experience was set up in June 2018, where KS4 students were selected for a place via a formal interview, including how they planned to fundraise over a one year period.
In addition to working on an elephant sanctuary for 6 days, students also visited Bangkok city, Benchasiri Park, known for its art sculptures and small lake, Chiang Mai, Tha Phae Gate and Kanchanaburi, which included a boat trip down the River Kwai.
The elephant sanctuary stunned the students! This was very much the highlight of the trip, however during their stay, they were educated on the Thai culture and how elephants play a huge part in a range of ceremonies and livelihoods. All of the animals in the sanctuary had been rescued from poor treatment in Thailand. Working at the sanctuary, students were hands on with the animals and in their enclosures, which was challenging considering the 35 degree temperatures.
The students were able to be involved in many cultural experiences including a blessing, Thai dance and a lesson in speaking Thai.
Woodham has already selected 14 KS4 students that will be travelling to Thailand in the Summer of 2020. Fundraising has already begun and we look forward to keeping you updated on their journey. To see what the students have experienced or to follow their journey please follow their Facebook page – @woodhamthailandexperience
