Seventeen lucky students from Cockermouth School embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Sri Lanka in March 2025, thanks to funding secured by Dr Suckling, Geography teacher, through the government’s Turing Scheme. The week-long cultural experience was designed to introduce Year 9 students to the education, diverse society and tropical environment of this fascinating South Asian country. The aim was to encourage students to engage with a different culture and take part in an adventure beyond their usual experiences.
The journey began with a flight to Colombo, followed by a coach transfer to Kurunegala, a large town 100km inland, which served as the base for the week. On Monday morning, the students were up bright and early for their first day at Royal International School (RIS), where a specially planned programme of lessons and activities had been arranged. Throughout the week, they attended a variety of classes alongside Sri Lankan students, including Sinhalese language, traditional dance, STEM lessons. They even had the chance to play elle (a sport similar to rounders) and volleyball. There was also plenty of time for cultural exchange, with students discussing the differences and similarities between life in the UK and Sri Lanka, and even joining the pre-schoolers for a fun-filled wet play session.
Beyond the classroom, the students enjoyed a packed itinerary of excursions exploring Sri Lanka’s rich history and natural beauty. Highlights included:
A visit to the Royal Cave Temple in Dambulla, home to enormous reclining Buddha statues and beautifully decorated Hindu gods.
A day at a Forest School, where students trekked through the jungle to a stunning lake and learned about the tropical ecosystem from a local guide.
The challenge of climbing the Yapahuwa rock fortress, a dramatic rocky dome crowned with a Buddhist stupa, offering breathtaking views from the top.
A jeep safari on the final day, where students had the unforgettable experience of seeing wild elephants up close in their natural habitat.
The final day at RIS was a truly special occasion. The Sri Lankan students put on an incredible performance of traditional dance and music, even featuring a student fire-eater! In return, Cockermouth students took to the stage to recite Wordsworth poetry, perform songs accompanied by guitar and lead a sing-along for the audience. They also introduced Cockermouth School’s values to their Sri Lankan peers before exchanging school-themed gifts such as keyrings and pens. Saying goodbye was emotional, as strong friendships had been formed over the week.
The impact of the trip was clear- students grew in confidence, embraced new challenges and gained a deeper understanding of a different way of life. This truly was an experience they will never forget!