Lower School News

Last week, our Grade 5 students and teachers embarked on an unforgettable adventure to Praia do Forte with RELP Turismo. The excitement was in the air early Tuesday morning, March 18, as students gathered at the airport, waving goodbye to their families. For many, this was their first overnight trip away from home—an exciting milestone filled with anticipation and wonder.

Leading up to the trip, students explored key topics in their homeroom and language classes, including sea turtles, ecosystems, and Brazilian history. Their classroom learning came to life as they visited Projeto Tamar, Sapiranga, and Castelo Garcia D’Ávila, where they eagerly asked questions, shared insights, and deepened their understanding.

One of the highlights this year was the incredible opportunity to feed, touch, and interact with sea turtles and other marine life—some students even fed sharks! A particularly special moment was seeing and gently petting ten-day-old baby turtles—an experience they won’t soon forget.

Beyond marine life, students immersed themselves in outdoor adventures, from hiking, canoeing, and ziplining in Sapiranga to taking a boat ride through the mangroves, where they learned about the brackish water ecosystem. A thrilling buggy ride to Castelo Garcia D’Ávila was a student favorite, as they explored historical artifacts and toured the ancient ruins. Of course, no trip to Bahia would be complete without time spent swimming in its warm, inviting waters.

While this trip was packed with rich educational experiences, the social-emotional growth it fostered was just as impactful. Students practiced self-management by preparing for activities independently and ensuring they had everything they needed. They also honed their relationship skills, forming new friendships, communicating with their roommates, and engaging with peers in meaningful ways throughout the journey.

The G5 Praia do Forte trip is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, helping students build confidence, independence, and resilience in just a few days. It also serves as a stepping stone as they transition to Middle School, preparing them for future experiences like the MS Week Without Walls Trips.

We are so proud of our students for embracing this adventure with enthusiasm and curiosity!