Hanoi Day 04

Today, our pupils introduced "zero-point' to their Vietnamese counterparts during recess in Uniworld International. The pupils had an enjoyable session playing skipping with the rubber ropes.

After lunch, we departed for the Ceramic Village. The pupils visited a local ceramic factory which helped them to appreciate the hard work that went into the making of each piece, allowing them to appreciate and treasure the ceramic pieces better. Mrs Tan-Yong also briefed the pupils on the details involved at each stage of the process. It was indeed a meaningful journey for us all.

Hanoi Day 03

During recess today, our pupils set up game stations in the playgound for the Vietnamese pupils to play traditional Singaporean games. For today, our highlight was the paper ball. We will be sharing a different game with them daily.

After a sumptous lunch at the school, we departed for our study tour. Our first stop was the Temple of Literature. The temple was built in 1070 and started functioning as a university 6 years later. Our pupils looked at the architecture and the history of the place. It was a good opportunity for pupils to understand the extent Chinese influence on the Vietnamese culture.

Next, we visited the fine arts museum, where we were given a guided tour by the curator. Our pupils were impressed by the art pieces, especially the equisite and detailed wood carvings. Many were also impressed by the beauty and realism of the artwork. The journey through the museum was like taking a stroll back in time.

Hanoi Day 2

The host families brought our pupils to school before 8 in the morning and the pupils were assigned classes to attend. Lessons were interesting for the pupils and it was a new experience for them studying in a different environment and setting. They also had an enjoyable time playing with their new friends during recess.

The pupils had a good lunch in the school before leaving for our study tours for the day. The pupils enjoyed the lunch and having adapted quickly to the local food.

Our first stop was The Ethnological Museum, where pupils learnt about the culture of Vietnam, and explored the traditional houses of Vietnam. Next, we visited the Tran Quoc Pagoda at the West Lake. It was a tranquil place and our pupils gained much information from our guide.

Day 1 in Hanoi

We touched base at Hanoi at about 12.30pm. We were warmly received by the team from UniWorld International School. Amidst the bus ride to school the pupils engaged in community singing which further bonded them.

We arrived at UniWorld International School after a 30 minutes ride. The pupils from UniWorld were awaiting in the courtyard with a welcoming banner. This was first contact between Riverlites and the pupils in Hanoi. Amiable smiles and cordial pleasantries took place and they had a group photo taken.

Ms. Emma, Deputy Principal, gave the opening address and a receptance speech was done by Mr. Yeo. That was followed by performances put up by the pupils of UniWorld International. Our pupils volunteered to join in the celebration with a singing performance of two songs.

The pupils were matched against their host families and they gathered at the reception area for some light refreshment. There was no communication barrier amongst the pupils of the two cities as they happily chatted and played in the school's grounds. Our Riverlites took their first steps into their Homestay programme as they left with their host families.

Touch Down

We have safely arrived in Hanoi at about 1.40pm. The pupils and my fellow colleagues are getting more enthusiastic about the "Homestay".

Stay tune to this blog for more updates on our Vietnam Homestay this coming holidays!