23 November 2023

Image of Sixth Form - Cambodia 2024

Dear Students/Parents/Carers,

Challenges Abroad-  Cambodia 2024

I am delighted to announce the launch of an international trip opportunity to Cambodia that we are offering to students in Year 12 this academic year.

This is a unique opportunity where students will be spending two weeks carrying out community development work outside of a city called Battembang in Northwest Cambodia. A significant part of the trip will be spent supporting a local primary school community where students will be delivering lessons to help children learn basic English, supporting student enrichment and supporting community development initiatives such as planting trees and supporting local wildlife conservation efforts. Whilst on the trip students will also have the opportunity to visit some of the amazing sites Cambodia has to offer such as the world famous temples of Angkor Wat.

 

   

We see this trip as an opportunity for student to develop transferrable skills, engage with new cultures and communities and transform their outlook on the world. We want students to really understand what global citizenship means and the role they may play in the future.

The company that will we will be working with is called Challenges Abroad. They have a wealth of experience in organising these unique opportunities for students. As part of the trip students will also look to engage and support a charity called the Future Sense Foundation, a company that supports disadvantaged communities and children around the world.

The cost of the trip is also largely subsidized following the colleges successful bid for financial grant to help provide these kinds of unique opportunities for our students at Bishop Challoner Sixth Form college.

The Dates

21st June – 7th July 2024 (2 weeks).

The Cost

  • £800.00 (paid over 4 installments and heavily subsidized through a secured grant).
  • First installment of £100 paid by Friday 12th January.
  • 4 x payments of £175 in February, March, April and May.
  • Bursary students may be provided with additional financial contributions where required.
  • Students will be expected to raise funds to support excursions and financing the trip.

What is included?

  • All flights (Singapore Airlines) and transfers to and from college.
  • All meals
  • Accommodation
  • All excursions
  • Comprehensive travel insurance

Application Process

This is a fantastic opportunity for students and but also it is important note at times will be a very demanding and challenging time away from home comforts for two weeks. Students should really consider this before applying to take part in the opportunity.

Due to the fact the trip is heavily subsidised and has limited places we are asking students to carry out the following application process to be considered for the trip.

Application requirement

Success Criteria

Deadline

A letter of application outlining why they would like to be considered for the trip.

 

No more than 2 sides of A4.

  • What is global citizenship and why is it important?
  • Why would you like to attend the trip?
  • What qualities do you feel you can bring to the trip?
  • What will you gain from being on the trip?
  • How could you support the Future Senses Foundation and raise awareness for the cause?

Wednesday 6th December by 5PM submitted electronically to l.mullins@bishopchalloner.bham.sch.uk or given in person to the Sixth form team.

A short reference by a class teacher / form teacher/ member of the Sixth Form team / member of the local community (150 words max)

Why they feel you are suitable for the trip and the qualities you would bring.

Ask teachers to email Mr Mullins direct with your reference by Wednesday 6th December at 5PM.

 

There may also be a requirement for a short interview if we have significant high numbers of high quality applications.

We are expecting the trip to be really popular so please do not be disappointed if you are not successful. The applications will be evaluated by a panel from the schools senior leadership team. Students will be notified if they have been successful by email.

A short parent / carer information evening will also take place on Tuesday 28th November at 6.30PM on Microsoft Teams and an invite will be sent out to parents/carers this week.

 

Yours Faithfully,

Mr Mullins

Head of Sixth Form

l.mullins@bishopchalloner.bham.sch.uk