Berkeley International School recently provided its students with a learning experience that went beyond the classroom walls—through an immersive field trip to Phnom Tamao Mountain, home to Cambodia’s largest wildlife rescue center. The excursion was thoughtfully planned to help students gain a deeper understanding of biodiversity, conservation efforts, and environmental responsibility. Through close observation and guided exploration, learners were exposed to real-life examples of what it means to protect and care for natural resources.
A Journey into Cambodia’s Wildlife and Natural Beauty
Set just outside Phnom Penh, Phnom Tamao is well known for its role in wildlife rehabilitation and forest preservation. The field trip offered Berkeley students a rare opportunity to see endangered species up close, observe their habitats, and learn about ongoing conservation work being done by organizations in Cambodia.
The highlight of the visit included observing rescued animals such as monkeys, tigers, elephants, and gibbons, each with its own story of rescue and recovery. Educators guided the students through meaningful discussions about habitat loss, poaching, and the importance of preserving biodiversity. Students engaged in active note-taking and participated in reflective activities designed to connect what they observed to lessons they had been studying in class.
Linking Outdoor Learning with Academic Goals
This type of experiential learning aligns closely with Berkeley International School’s commitment to providing well-rounded, globally informed education. Field trips like this one help students connect academic subjects—like science, geography, and ethics—with real-world contexts. For many of the students, seeing the animals in a natural setting sparked curiosity and compassion that textbooks alone cannot inspire.
The trip to Phnom Tamao not only enriched their understanding of biology and ecosystems, but it also emphasized personal responsibility. Students were encouraged to think about how their own daily actions impact the planet, making the experience both educational and transformative.
Promoting Environmental Awareness and Global Citizenship
At Berkeley International School, environmental awareness is a core part of the curriculum. This field trip is just one example of how the school actively promotes sustainability and responsible global citizenship. By giving students opportunities to witness conservation in action, the school fosters values such as empathy, stewardship, and activism from a young age.
The school’s educators understand that children learn best when they’re emotionally engaged and when their learning is rooted in real-world experience. That’s why opportunities like this—where students observe, reflect, and ask questions in a hands-on setting—are essential for developing deeper critical thinking skills and a lasting sense of environmental responsibility.
A Day to Remember at Phnom Tamao
The field trip was more than just a day outside the classroom—it was a powerful reminder that education can be active, meaningful, and deeply inspiring. With the beauty of nature all around and the sounds of rescued animals echoing through the sanctuary, Berkeley students walked away with a deeper respect for wildlife and a greater understanding of how they can help protect it.
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