From particle accelerators in Switzerland to sustainability workshops in Japan, service in Costa Rica, and wilderness treks in New Hampshire, King students explored the world this summer through four immersive global education programs. These experiences combined science, culture, service, and adventure to spark curiosity, deepen cross-cultural understanding, and foster a spirit of global citizenship. 

Each summer, King students from Grade 8 to Grade 11 have the opportunity to participate in immersive travel opportunities through the school's Global Education program. This year’s four distinct trips offered even deeper insight into science, sustainability, service, and self-reliance while fostering a sense of global citizenship.

High Energy Science in Switzerland and France
Upper school students' European journey began in France, where the group toured the lakeside village of Yvoire and the medieval town of Gruyère, experiencing the culture, architecture, and flavors of the region, complete with Swiss chocolate tastings and traditional folk music. 

The group also traveled to Switzerland, where they visited CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research. Students toured the impressive Compact Muon Solenoid service cavern, met with particle physicists, and conducted hands-on experiments in radiation detection, gaining firsthand experience with the instruments and innovations powering our understanding of the universe.

Scientific insight continued during their visit to ITER, one of the world’s most ambitious fusion energy projects. Upon arrival, the group donned protective equipment before being granted access to view the sophisticated scientific engineering up close. 

“Fully suited up, we entered the tokamak assembly site, where we became among the first to lay eyes on two freshly assembled vacuum chambers — components of the reactor that will one day reach temperatures hotter than the core of the Sun,” said science teacher and trip chaperone Tom Castonguay. “It was an awe-inspiring sight, and one that left an indelible mark on all of us.”

The second half of the journey took students to southern France, where they joined peers from King’s partner school, École Internationale PACA. Through homestays, hikes, and shared school events, including a time capsule ceremony and student-led presentations, students forged friendships while comparing academic and cultural traditions.

Sustainability in Japan
Another group of upper school students made cultural connections nearly halfway around the globe in Japan, where they delved into the UN Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on the well-being of people and the planet. 

Beginning in the Fukuoka Prefecture, students visited King’s partner school, Meizen High School, capping off numerous virtual exchanges King’s Japanese Exchange Club held with the school last academic year. 

While visiting, students strengthened cross-cultural connections and explored global challenges like climate change in a workshop led by the Japanese school’s principal, Principal Nakashima. King students also took part in the school’s daily cleaning routine, which encourages responsibility and care for shared spaces and the environment. Lodging with homestay families during the first weekend offered a glimpse into everyday Japanese life and a deeper connection with the local community.

The trip expanded on environmental appreciation and sustainable innovation as students experienced Japan’s rich heritage and witnessed how ancient traditions coexist with forward-thinking technology. 

Traversing Kyoto, Osaka, and Tokyo, students participated in a furoshiki workshop that introduced eco-friendly cloth wrapping, took public transportation instead of a tour bus, explored thrift culture in Harajuku, and visited the Pasona pavilion at the “Designing Future Society for our Lives” World Expo, which highlighted the importance of respecting nature. 

Culture and Service in Costa Rica
Meanwhile, in Costa Rica, Grade 8 students enjoyed a week of service, adventure, and cultural discovery. 

Exploring the guiding question, “Where am I needed in my community?” at Fundación Arenales, students contributed to local support projects, developing empathy and global awareness through direct engagement with local organizations.

Numerous outdoor and culinary activities added to the cultural immersion. Students hiked the Arenal Volcano, explored a coffee plantation, visited a zoo, and ziplined through the tree-tops. Time at the La Fortuna Waterfall, a boat tour, and a relaxing catamaran tour rounded out the trip, fostering a deep appreciation for Costa Rica’s natural beauty and biodiversity.

Outdoor Adventure in New Hampshire
A second group of Grade 8 students headed north for an off-the-grid wilderness experience in New Hampshire’s pristine forests and waterways. From their base camp at Mollidgewock State Park, students spent the week hiking the Presidential Range, paddling the Magalloway and Androscoggin Rivers, and exploring the 13 Mile Woods and the National Wildlife Refuge.

With an emphasis on building confidence and environmental stewardship, students learned primitive survival skills, practiced conservation techniques, and encountered wildlife in their natural habitats. The program encouraged students to disconnect from modern distractions and reconnect with nature, cultivating resilience, self-reliance, and a sense of wonder in the outdoors.

“I was surprised by a few kids who sometimes present as not especially adventurous or confident at school who stepped up their resilience and leadership and really flourished in some pretty challenging conditions,” shared Dean of Student Life Jeremy Bletterman. “One night, sitting around the campfire, I asked the kids who would like to go on another trip like this, and they all raised their hands and asked if we could do a reunion trip next year!”