Seven Year 13 students recently returned from an extraordinary educational and humanitarian journey to our school in Lodwar, Turkana, Kenya.
Their adventure began in Nairobi, where they had the opportunity to explore the city, learn about its rich history and culture, and enjoy an unforgettable safari. The main purpose of the trip, however, was to carry out a volunteering project at RPS Nursery Kenya, supporting young children through a programme designed by the students themselves.
During their stay, our students became actively involved in the daily life of the Nursery School. They joined lessons, supported teachers with classroom activities, helped distribute food to the children and assisted with the general running of the school. Their enthusiasm, dedication and willingness to contribute made them valuable members of the school community throughout their visit.
The activities had been carefully prepared under the guidance of our educational professionals and were implemented by the students as part of the requirements of the IB CAS (Creativity, Activity and Service) programme. The students will also evaluate their experiences and reflect on the impact of their contributions. CAS is one of the distinctive features of the International Baccalaureate Programme, offering life-changing experiences that develop essential skills increasingly valued by universities and employers worldwide.
As shown in the photographs, our students fully embraced Kenyan culture, gaining first-hand experience of local traditions and daily life. Their time in Lodwar provided a unique opportunity to understand the challenges faced by local communities while appreciating the importance of education, solidarity and meaningful service.
Throughout their stay, they had the privilege of being accompanied and guided by Silvia Flórez, Founder and President of Fundación Vipeika, whose knowledge, dedication and commitment made this experience even more meaningful.
This remarkable journey enabled our students to develop empathy, leadership, intercultural understanding, independence and a genuine spirit of service, while creating memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.
Our students have already shared their experiences and reflections with the wider RPS community, particularly with our current Year 12 students, who will also have the opportunity to embark on this equally rewarding journey and enjoy a truly life-changing experience.
