Cambodia Tour
Housemaster Mr Oliver Derbyshire reports on a challenging and rewarding exploration by our boys into the unique culture and history of this amazing country.
The Cultural and Service Immersion to Cambodia during the October holidays proved to be an unforgettable and deeply meaningful experience, shaped not only by cultural exploration but, most importantly, by the boys’ commitment to giving back to communities in need. The itinerary was full, varied, and purposeful, offering profound insights into Cambodian history, culture, and contemporary challenges while also providing opportunities for genuine service.
The centrepiece of this wonderful trip was the sustained effort of building a house for a local family in need, providing tangible and lasting support. The impact this had on the family and their village was profound and gave our tourists first-hand experience of how our actions can affect those less fortunate.
The journey began in Phnom Penh with a cycle tour past key national landmarks: the Independence Monument, the Royal Palace, and the statue of King Norodom Sihanouk. These early encounters with Cambodia’s rich heritage provided valuable context for the solemn visits that followed.
Cambodia’s recent history is marked by horrendous violence, and many Cambodians live with visceral first or second-hand experience of this dark period. Time spent at the Killing Fields and the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum offered powerful reminders of the country’s tragic past and encouraged thoughtful reflection on suffering, compassion, and resilience.
Balancing these heavier moments were lighter cultural experiences at the National Museum, the Central Market and a peaceful sunset cruise along the Mekong River, reminding the boys to appreciate the beauty and gentleness of daily Cambodian life.
A separate highlight came during the long journey towards Siem Reap, when the group stopped in the town of Skun, known for its famous tarantulas. Stepping off the bus, the boys were greeted by local primary school children proudly holding large spiders. Many of our pupils not only posed for photos with the tarantulas but even sampled the local delicacy of fried spider.
Wildlife service was another meaningful aspect of the immersion. The group worked alongside the Free the Bears organisation at the Phnom Tamao Wildlife Rescue Centre, preparing food and enrichment items for rescued sun and moon bears. Their hands-on contribution directly supported animals affected by habitat loss and illegal wildlife trade, and watching the bears enjoy the treats they had created provided another notable memory.
A visit to Vessvan Primary School near Siem Reap offered another impactful opportunity to give back. The boys delivered school supplies, visited classrooms, and gained first-hand insight into the contrast between rural Cambodian education and life in Sydney. Their generosity and engagement left a lasting impression on both visitors and hosts.
Additional cultural activities, including a cycle tour of the temples at Angkor Wat, a boat journey on Lake Tonle Sap, a cooking class, and vibrant night markets (where a number of our tourists truly came into their own), further enriched the experience. A concluding trek and homestay strengthened the themes of humility, connection, and shared humanity that defined the trip.
Throughout the journey, the School staff Ms Furley and Mrs Newall kept spirits high with their enthusiasm and positivity, and we were blessed with an engaging, humorous, and knowledgeable guide in Ny, who opened our eyes to the daily life and struggles of the Cambodian people.
Overall, the experience blended learning, reflection, and adventure, but above all, it emphasised the profound and lasting value of giving back. We hope to run further such experiences in the future and encourage the boys to get involved if this has caught their interest.
Sydney Grammar School
College Street, Darlinghurst
NSW 2010 Australia
Phone: (02) 9332 5800
Edgecliff Preparatory School
Alma Street, Paddington
NSW 2021 Australia
Phone: (02) 9366 0100
St Ives Preparatory School
Ayres Rd, St Ives
NSW 2075 Australia
Phone: (02) 8302 5200
