Exploring More Than an Island: Reflections on Their Rawa Experience

At the end of semester one, our Middleton secondary students embarked on a highly anticipated excursion trip to Rawa Island. Surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine beaches, this excursion was more than a scenic escape, it was an opportunity for our learners to challenge themselves, build new relationships and live out Middleton’s school values in a hands-on, real-world setting.

Following the trip, students were invited to reflect on their experiences. Their responses were honest, light-hearted and deeply insightful, revealing not just what they did, but who they became along the way.

How was the trip to Rawa Islands? Was there a favourite moment during your journey?

“I liked it, it was eventful. My favourite moment was beach time, playing with sandballs.” – Amir

“Kayaking. I got to explore the whole island from the waters.” – Shreya

“Playing frisbee and kayaking. Frisbee was unorganised, but it was fun with friends. I also saw a stingray while snorkeling!” – Julia

“Snorkelling. There were beautiful fishes and I saw four sharks!” – James

“Snorkelling too, so many beautiful fish.” – Rhys

Whether it was gliding over water, building sand creations, or observing marine life up close, students clearly cherished their time outdoors, learning through play and exploration.

What school values did you see in action—either in yourself or others—during this trip?

“I saw adaptability, collaboration and mindfulness in action. We collaborated during the beach monitoring activity. Kayaking helped me practice adaptability, and mindfulness came into play throughout.” – Amir

“Mindfulness, especially during snorkeling and becoming more aware of the environment.” – Rhys

“Curiosity, during the sea urchins lecture and the Waves of Change trivia. Collaboration, because we were in mixed-grade groups.” – Shreya

“Confidence, especially during kayaking and snorkelling.” – James

“Confidence, talking to people from other grades.” – Julia

From curiosity to collaboration, confidence to mindfulness, the Rawa trip became a living example of Middleton’s values, woven into each moment, experience and connection made.

What is one challenge you faced during the trip, and how did you overcome it?

“The challenge was meeting new people. But through games and team-building activities, we connected.” – Group reflection

“Games allowed you to mix with everybody.” – Shreya

For some, the greatest challenge was social, meeting new peers and sharing unfamiliar spaces. But with structured games and shared experiences, even these small hurdles became moments of growth.

If you could bring one lesson or mindset from this trip into your everyday life, what would it be?

“Getting myself dirty, I became more comfortable in my environment. I gained confidence and adaptability.” – Amir

“Being open to trying new activities and having the mindset of expecting to enjoy them rather than not.” – Rhys

“Caring more about wildlife and ocean conservation.” – Shreya

“Learning about new things like sea urchins. They looked scary at first but now I understand their usefulness. Also, I’m more comfortable collaborating and working with others.” – Julia

“Don’t bring sand into the house.” – James

Beyond the waves and laughter, students left with new perspectives—on nature, on themselves, and on how to carry these learnings into life back at school.

The Rawa Island excursion was a journey of adventure, connection, and meaningful learning. It gave students the chance to experience Middleton’s school values in action—outside the classroom and within themselves.

They returned with new friendships, a deeper understanding of the natural world, and a mindset ready to take on new challenges.

Discover how Middleton’s values-based education extends beyond the classroom. Learn More About Our Holistic Development Programmes.

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