Experiences from Ignite Switzerland: Hear from our students
Ignite: Switzerland is a programme for the curious, passionate, and brave, a unique 12-week overseas residential experience exclusive to Year 9 Dulwich students.
Exciting, inspiring, adventurous, eye-opening. These are just some of the words used by our students to describe their transformative experience with Ignite: Switzerland.
Three months ago, the first cohort of Dulwich students arrived in the breathtaking Engadine Valley in the eastern Swiss Alps for an unforgettable learning journey. During the Snow Term, our students learned to embrace the cold and build confidence, resilience, and fearlessness amid the stunning alpine mountains. Our students, many of whom are living away from home for the first time, are embracing new experiences and challenges with enthusiasm and courage.
Recently, we had the pleasure of sitting down with some of our students to hear their reflections on their time with Ignite so far. Their candid and creative responses highlight the unique and inspiring nature of Ignite: Switzerland. Watch our video to hear from the students themselves!
First impressions
"The region is extremely mystical. When the sun was rising, the sky was all red and purple, with the mountains as the backdrop. It’s such a beautiful place and a great opportunity to be here.”
—— Hayden D.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
As our students made the three-hour drive from the airport to Hochalpines Institut Ftan AG (HIF), they were greeted by the breathtaking beauty of Switzerland. Nestled in the Lower Engadine Valley, HIF is the home of Ignite: Switzerland, a sister school to Dulwich.
The awe-inspiring scenery of the region left our students amazed, while the welcoming and supportive environment at HIF made them feel right at home. The kindness and dedication of the teachers and fellow students made a lasting impression on our learners, setting the stage for an unforgettable educational experience.
Learning and growth
"I have learned and developed independence and responsibility, like being responsible for cleaning up my room and being responsible for my actions and words."
—— Indrani M.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
“Some challenges that I’ve overcome is getting used to the room, also getting used to the school, the different school rules, the food here, and also the environment.”
—— Matt L.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
Our students had a lot to say when asked about their biggest takeaways from the programme: from developing a sense of independence and taking responsibility, to meeting students from HIF and other Dulwich schools, and exploring new passions. Some students spoke about the value of being in a new environment and learning to adapt to different challenges, while others highlighted the importance of building meaningful relationships with peers from different backgrounds. Through their experiences with the programme, our students have gained not only new skills and knowledge, but also a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them.
As this is the Snow Term, it comes as no surprise that for many of our students, the highlight of the programme has been participating in winter sports, such as learning to ski or trying snowboarding for the first time. Against the stunning backdrop of the majestic Alps, our students have laughed, learned and forged new friendships, united by the thrill of mastering the slopes. From tentative beginners to confident skiers, each student has made progress and found a sense of accomplishment in their winter sports journey.
People
"The teachers are very nice and welcoming...you can be yourself talking to them."
—— Valentina L.
Dulwich College Seoul
“The HIF students here are really friendly, and they're really great to play sports with, they’re such a joy because every night they go to play sports like basketball, volleyball, football.”
—— Hayden D.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
Connecting with students from other Dulwich schools and from HIF has been an unforgettable experience for our students. They have enjoyed the opportunity to exchange new ideas and cultures, broadening their horizons and forging lasting friendships that will endure beyond the programme. The supportive environment at HIF have fostered a sense of community and belonging among our students.
What’s Next
"I really look forward to building up on my passion project, to really get it to be nice and smooth, and really powerful. "
—— Hayden D.
Dulwich College (Singapore)
The Passion Project marks the culmination of the academic programme during Ignite, encouraging students to delve deeper into their learning and reflect on their personal growth. In addition to this, the opportunity to meet new people, make friends and connect with students from the Dulwich network of schools has been a valuable aspect of the programme.
We are delighted to see our students relishing every aspect of their experience and seizing every opportunity to challenge themselves and grow. We have no doubt that it will serve them well as they navigate their journey towards making a positive impact on the world.
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