“You cannot teach a person anything; you can only help them discover it within themselves.” – Galileo Galilei.

Off-campus learning environments like the Hefei Aquarium are more than just a change of scenery – they are windows into new worlds. As part of our official IGS Summer Camp, students embarked on a fascinating journey beneath the ocean’s surface.

The visit to the Hefei Aquarium was not only a clear highlight of the week, but also served as a living classroom – one that sparked awe, curiosity, and genuine excitement.

The day was thoughtfully embedded within a broader thematic concept: In the days leading up to the visit, the children created research profiles on different sea creatures and built their own mini aquariums – complete with colourful fish, coral reefs, and self-designed underwater animals.

This creative preparation sharpened their imagination and deepened their interest in the real-life marine creatures they would soon encounter. After the trip, we reflected together on the question: Are oceans home only to fish or to many other species as well? The result was a holistic learning experience that truly resonated.

The Hefei Aquarium was the perfect setting: home to a wide variety of marine life, including sharks, turtles, penguins, seahorses, rays, and seals, it offered an impressive display of biodiversity.

A special highlight was the glass underwater tunnel, where students felt as though they were standing right in the middle of the ocean.

Therefore, this day was more than just a school trip. It was a learning adventure that reminded us how education can be vivid, exciting, and lasting.