Lessons Beyond the Classroom: A Parent’s Reflection on Borneo 2025
We wanted to take a moment to share our experience as parents following our son’s recent trip to Borneo during the August holidays. It was an incredible opportunity for him—not only to travel abroad, but to learn, grow, and experience independence in a way that only such a journey can offer.
From the very beginning, we came to appreciate that the preparation for the trip was as important as the trip itself. The process of planning, organizing, fundraising, and anticipating what lay ahead helped him develop valuable skills in time management, teamwork, and self-discipline. It was a formative stage in his personal development, and we could already see the growth even before he left.
Allowing our child to travel abroad without us was, of course, a big step. But we quickly saw how vital it was for his confidence and maturity. In Borneo, each student had to take responsibility for their daily life—from managing their spending on food, deciding where they would sleep, to planning their activities and leading their teams each day. These experiences gave them real ownership over their choices and encouraged leadership, accountability, and adaptability in a completely new environment.
Another powerful part of the experience was traveling with students he didn't know well at first. This required our son to step outside his comfort zone, build new relationships, and learn how to work with different personalities toward shared goals. The friendships and teamwork that developed along the way have been invaluable.
Since returning home, we have noticed a real change in him. He has grown not only in confidence but also in focus, determination, and maturity. His sense of responsibility has deepened, and he is more engaged with his studies and his school community. Having the opportunity to share his reflections and experiences with the school was a proud moment for him—and for us—as it showcased his growth and his ability to lead and inspire others.
We are truly grateful for the opportunity he was given and the care and support provided by the school and staff who made this journey possible. Experiences like this shape our children in ways that go far beyond the classroom, and we cannot emphasize enough the value of such adventures in helping them become capable, thoughtful young adults.
Regards,
Carlo and Tamryn Gonzaga