Alumni News: The Year 11 Cambodia Cultural Trip: A Legacy of Learning and Service

Since its beginnings in 2004, the Year 11 Cambodia Cultural Trip has become one of the most meaningful and enduring experiences in the life of the College. Originally conceived as a study tour to both Vietnam and Cambodia, the program aimed to deepen students’ understanding of key themes studied in Society and Culture and Modern History. Over time, however, the tour evolved into something far more profound, a cultural immersion grounded in service, community engagement, and global awareness.

An early and defining moment in this transformation came through a visit to the Sunshine Children’s Village in Phnom Penh and the relationship formed with its founder, Geraldine Cox. The experience left a lasting impression on students and staff alike. Ms Cox later visited the College to speak with students, and parents and the community rallied behind fundraising initiatives to support the village, marking the beginning of a strong tradition of service connected to the tour.

By 2007, community work had become a central focus of the program. Students and staff began supporting Cambodian villagers by raising funds to build homes, an initiative that required dedicated fundraising efforts throughout the year to cover the cost of materials. Over the years, the College community has embraced a wide variety of creative fundraising activities, including movie nights, garage and car boot sales, cake and plant stalls, car washes, sausage sizzles, high teas, mufti days, and even the occasional “Toss the Teacher” event.

A relatively recent addition in 2018 was an environmental experience at the Mondulkiri Elephant and Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary’s work rehabilitating elephants and protecting wildlife has been a highlight for many participants, and it has also provided an additional opportunity for students to support conservation efforts through fundraising and donations.

A significant new chapter began in 2014 with the establishment of a partnership with Krou Yeung School in the Ratanakiri Province of north eastern Cambodia. This relationship has grown into a meaningful collaboration that continues to make a genuine difference for the teachers and students of both communities. Over the years, the College has welcomed teachers and students from Krou Yeung School, while a number of alumni have returned to Cambodia to offer ongoing support and connection. In fact, in 2026, for the first time, two female students from the school are attending BDC in Year 11 and will complete their HSC at the College next year.

In 2024, the ten year partnership between the College and Krou Yeung School was celebrated at the school itself, with the BDC Principal at the time, Mr Johnstone, in attendance. The occasion highlighted the deep and lasting impact the relationship has had on both institutions.

The history of the Cambodia Tour would not exist without the vision, passion, and dedication of Mick Klipin. Since the program’s inception, he has attended more than twenty tours and has played a central role in shaping the experience for generations of students. In recognition of his commitment to History education, Mr Klipin was awarded the NSW Premier’s History Scholarship in 2025. Earlier this year, he travelled to Cambodia and Vietnam to interview individuals about the Vietnam War and the Ho Chi Minh Trail as part of his continuing work as a HSIE educator.

Today, the Cambodia Education Tour stands as an extraordinary legacy within the College. Participation continues to grow, with strong interest from both students and staff eager to take part in the experience. The program combines service learning with cultural exchange, encouraging students to develop meaningful connections with local communities and fellow students. Through these experiences, participants gain a deeper appreciation of Cambodia’s culture, history, and society, as well as a broader understanding of the Asian region.

The Cambodia Tour has become a defining rite of passage for many Year 11 students. It represents the values of compassion, service, and global awareness that the College seeks to instil in its community. With its strong foundations and enduring impact, it is hoped that this remarkable program will continue to enrich the lives of students and alumni for many decades to come.