Education does not end within the four walls of a classroom. Sometimes, the best lessons are learned outside—through exploration, discovery, and real-life experiences. This is why Verbum Dei Academy and Verbum Dei International College place a high value on excursions and field trips as part of their academic program. These outings provide students with the opportunity to connect theory with practice, broaden their horizons, and build unforgettable memories.
Why Excursions and Field Trips Matter
Field trips are more than just a fun day out. They are carefully planned educational experiences that:
- Reinforce classroom lessons with real-world applications.
- Expose students to new environments, cultures, and perspectives.
- Spark curiosity and lifelong interest in learning.
- Build independence, social skills, and teamwork among students.
At Verbum Dei, excursions are designed to ensure students not only enjoy themselves but also return with deeper knowledge and stronger character.
Planning and Preparation
Excursions at Verbum Dei are never spontaneous; they are the product of detailed planning. Teachers collaborate to choose destinations that align with the curriculum. For younger pupils at Verbum Dei Academy, trips often include places like the zoo, children’s museums, parks, and science centers. For the older students at Verbum Dei International College, destinations may extend to historical sites, industries, universities, or government institutions.
Parents are briefed about the trips in advance, with clear communication on safety measures, learning goals, and expectations. Students are guided on behavior, dress codes, and how to make the most of the experience.
Excursions at Verbum Dei Academy (Nursery & Primary)
At the Academy level, the goal is to nurture curiosity and exploration in young learners. Trips are chosen to give pupils a hands-on experience of the things they read in books.
Examples of past excursions include:
- Zoo Visits – Pupils see animals they only studied in textbooks, learning about habitats and conservation.
- Science Museums – Children explore interactive exhibits that spark a love for science.
- Fire Station Tours – Pupils meet real firefighters and learn about safety.
- Botanical Gardens – Students discover the beauty of plants and ecosystems.
For these young learners, such trips often become the highlight of their year, shaping their imaginations and building enthusiasm for learning.
Excursions at Verbum Dei International College (Secondary)
For college students, excursions are more advanced and tied directly to academic and career readiness. These trips aim to expose teenagers to the wider world, preparing them for adulthood.
Examples include:
- Historical Sites – Visits to national monuments or museums enrich history lessons.
- Industry Tours – Trips to factories, banks, and tech hubs expose students to career opportunities.
- Universities – Exposure to higher education environments inspires college aspirations.
- Government Institutions – Tours to courts, legislatures, or ministries help students understand governance and civic responsibility.
Such trips bridge the gap between theory and practice, showing students how their subjects connect to real-life professions and society.
The Day of the Trip
Excursion day is always filled with excitement. Buses are prepared early in the morning, teachers take attendance, and students chatter with anticipation. Safety is a top priority, with staff supervising closely and ensuring every student stays within the group.
Activities during the trip typically include guided tours, question-and-answer sessions, and practical demonstrations. Teachers encourage students to take notes, ask questions, and reflect on what they learn. Packed lunches or refreshment breaks make the day enjoyable, creating a balance of learning and fun.
Lessons Beyond the Classroom
Excursions at Verbum Dei are about much more than academics. They also teach important life skills such as:
- Social Interaction – Students learn to work together and support each other in new environments.
- Independence – Away from home and class routines, they develop confidence.
- Respect – Pupils learn to behave responsibly in public spaces.
- Curiosity – Being exposed to new places encourages students to ask more questions and think critically.
These experiences are particularly powerful for children who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities.
Voices from the Trips
- “When I saw the lion at the zoo, I finally understood what my teacher meant about carnivores. It was amazing!” – Pupil, Verbum Dei Academy
- “The visit to the university inspired me. I can now picture myself studying there one day.” – Student, Verbum Dei International College
- “Excursions show us that learning is everywhere, not just in books.” – Teacher, Verbum Dei
The Lasting Impact
Excursions and field trips create some of the most cherished school memories. Students often talk about these experiences for years, recalling not only the fun but also the lessons they learned. They return to the classroom with renewed motivation, able to connect concepts with real-world relevance.
At Verbum Dei Academy and International College, excursions are not just about travel—they are about shaping well-rounded individuals who are curious, observant, and prepared for life beyond school.
By making the world their classroom, Verbum Dei Schools remind students that knowledge is everywhere, waiting to be discovered.
