Arctic Circle and Norway Exploration Tour

Two S6 students, Ho Oi Yan Chelsie (6A) and Mak Ho Lam Holami (6B), were nominated for an inspiring trip to Oslo and Svalbard in the Arctic Circle from May 29 to June 7, 2026.  Organized by the Partners Education Foundation, the tour offered students the chance to explore the Arctic’s history, biology, and geography through guided visits and lectures.

In Norway, they experienced local culture during a visit to Oslo City Center, where they saw the traditional Confirmation Day celebration.  The trip also included visits to Vigeland Park and the Munch Museum, deepening their appreciation of Vigeland’s sculptures, such as the Wheel of Life and the Monolith, as well as Munch’s famous paintings, including The Scream, Puberty, The Sick Child, and The Sun.

Cultural differences were abundant. On their first night in Norway, Chelsie and Holami encountered the polar day, when the sun never set, allowing them to enjoy the midnight sun.  On the Ocean Albatros, operated by Polar Latitudes Expeditions, they engaged with an international crew and fellow travelers, attended lectures on Arctic wildlife, and took part in knot-tying workshops despite seasickness.

They enjoyed discussing global issues such as nature conservation, declining education, poverty, and climate change.  "Think Globally, Act Locally” was a key lesson.

A major theme was “Leave No Trace,” emphasized through AECO's educational materials to protect the fragile environment. Zodiac trips to settlements and wildlife areas highlighted the importance of conservation.  They also learned about the history of Arctic whaling, noting the significant population decline since then.

The students were fascinated by Arctic biodiversity, spotting Polar Bears, Arctic Foxes, Reindeer, Guillemots, Kittiwakes, Eiders, and more.

At the Svalbard Museum, they gained insights into forty ethnic groups living in the Arctic and their relationship with wildlife. They explored Ny-Ålesund, learning about Arctic exploration, mining history, and explorers like Roald Amundsen and Robert Peary.  The group also discovered the international project behind “Norge,” the first aircraft to fly over the North Pole, built collaboratively by Americans, Italians, and Norwegians.

Soon, the students will share their memorable experiences with classmates during an upcoming school assembly.