School may no longer be in session, but that has not stopped students at The Pennington School from connecting classroom knowledge with real-world experiences around the globe. Currently, two groups of Upper School students are participating in experiential learning opportunities half a world away. 

Together with Director of the Applied Science Certificate Program Sue Wirsig, STEM students are continuing their mission to bring innovative solutions to low-resource communities in Malawi. This is the School’s fifth such trip to the East African country, and while much of the work draws from scientific and engineering projects, such as water filtration and a hybrid sanitary napkin, students are also engaged in cultural and educational activities, such as painting a classroom mural, meeting with local community leaders, learning about permaculture, and Lego building.

Meanwhile, another group of Pennington faculty and students are currently exploring some of the ancient European pilgrimage routes of Camino de Santiago which run through the historic towns and coastal regions of Portugal. The itinerary includes a unique blend of reflection, adventure, and discovery set within the iconic cities of Lisbon and Porto. So far, students have celebrated Portugal Day in Fatima, visited the country’s oldest university in Coimbra, learned about the region’s traditions, viewed medieval architecture, and dipped their toes in the tidal pools of Porto.

Check back soon to learn more about these amazing summer adventures.