BIS Abu Dhabi experienced jungle treks and cultural exchange in Borneo
Once upon an adventurous Term 3, seventeen brave Year 12 students from BIS Abu Dhabi traded their classrooms for rainforests, textbooks for trekking boots, and Wi-Fi for wildlife.
Their mission? To complete the school’s first-ever Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Expedition, a two-week journey deep into the heart of Borneo, Malaysia. What followed was nothing short of legendary.
Led by Mr. Givens, Dr. McDowell, and the ever-energetic North Star expedition crew, the students dove headfirst into jungle life.
With sweat on their brows and determination in their hearts, they hiked through thick rainforest trails, laughed through soggy socks, and discovered a resilience they never knew they had.
Their journey wasn’t just about physical grit. In the enchanting Mari Mari Cultural Village, students explored Borneo’s rich heritage, where every dance, dish, and drumbeat brought them closer to the local culture.
Later, in the peaceful village of Nampasan in Ranau, they rolled up their sleeves for a heartfelt residential project. Whether painting walls or planting smiles, the students left behind more than improved spaces, they left behind friendships.
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And just when they thought the trip couldn’t get any more unforgettable, Mamutik Island called.
Here, they snorkeled among vibrant reefs and joined hands in a coral restoration project, becoming stewards of the ocean and protectors of the planet. It was a splash of color, a dash of science, and a whole lot of awe.
But the real magic? That happened between the moments. Through early mornings, jungle mishaps, and shared laughter, these seventeen individuals became something more than a group, they became a family.
Their unity, leadership, and boundless positivity made such an impression on the North Star team that, for the first time in 20 years, the seasoned guides returned to the airport at 3AM just to say goodbye.
Now back in Abu Dhabi, the students have returned with stories in their hearts, mud (still) in their boots, and a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. They are stronger, wiser, and ready for whatever challenge comes next.
For further information, visit Nord Anglia Education – BIS Abu Dhabi
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