Program story
When students from CIC-affiliated programs boarded a flight to the United States, they were beginning more than a tour. They entered regular classes, learned alongside local students and experienced the routines of an American high school community.
The 2026 St. Mary’s School winter program combined two weeks of classroom participation with applied learning, outdoor exploration and service in the local community.
Classroom immersion
From the first day, visiting students joined local classes, followed the same teachers and took part in discussion and classroom activities. They were expected to participate as learners rather than observe as tourists.
Living and learning in an English-speaking environment helped students become more willing to communicate, more comfortable in unfamiliar settings and more confident working with peers from another culture.
Robotics
A robotics course asked students to combine hands-on construction, coding and teamwork. Each stage required testing and adjustment before the robots could move as intended.
The final result mattered, but so did the process: staying focused, communicating with a team and treating unsuccessful attempts as information for the next one.
Golf
An indoor golf session introduced many students to the sport for the first time. A simulated course, sensor feedback and coaching gave them a structured way to learn the basics.
Beyond the technical skills, the activity placed attention on patience, concentration and self-management—qualities that also matter in demanding academic environments.
Outdoor learning
St. Mary’s School educators led students to the redwood coast near the California–Oregon border. Among the trees, students identified plant species, discussed local ecology and learned how to observe the natural environment safely and respectfully.
The experience was a reminder that a complete education does not take place only inside a classroom.
Community service
Students visited a local kindergarten, read stories in English and led interactive games for younger children. With no script to rely on, they needed to communicate clearly, organize activities and respond to their audience in the moment.
The visit combined language practice with social responsibility and care for others—an important part of learning to participate in a community.
Two weeks is a short time, but a genuinely immersive experience can still be full of meaningful firsts.
Students practiced independence in English, experienced the rhythm of an American high school, explored technology and nature, served a local community and built relationships across cultures. Program dates and activities vary, but the purpose remains the same: learning through participation.
Keep reading
From Wuhan to Shenzhen, students and educators returned to campus with new faces, familiar smiles and shared expectations for the year ahead.
Campus leaders and CIC colleagues gathered online to explore continuous improvement, educational innovation and stronger school leadership.
The school joined the KLESA network and announced Cognia accreditation in August 2026.
