Our pioneering Future School project, in collaboration with YCYW EdFutures Division, aims to create an innovative curriculum that breaks traditional educational boundaries. The EdFutures Division is a key component of YCYW's "Seeds for the Future" programme. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies and the META learning platform, we offer high school students experiential and immersive learning opportunities that enhance their understanding of advanced subjects. The traditional curriculum is restructured into four fields: Science and Technology, Creativity and Performing Arts, Health and Wellness, and Humanities and Social Science, achieving true interdisciplinary integration.

Within the Creative and Performing Arts field, the Digital Media & Design course is a standout. Through META, students access top global resources, gaining a rich and advanced learning experience. The addition of immersive offline activities, supported by EdFutures, further deepens their engagement and understanding.

Recently, some of our students and teachers, including the EdFutures representative, embarked on a two-day digital media study tour to Suzhou and Wuzhen. This immersive experience not only allowed students to explore the picturesque landscapes but also deepened their application of the Digital Media & Design course.

Digital Media teacher Mr William Ordonez, representing EdFutures, shared that the goal of the study tour was to guide students in exploring the intricacies of digital media and design through carefully designed practical experiences, in line with EdFutures' focus on experiential learning. This approach ensures students efficiently complete their course projects while applying advanced skills in real-world settings.

As a key part of the Digital Media & Design course, these meticulously planned trips enriched students' experiences by visiting the classical gardens of Suzhou and the water town of Wuzhen. Under Mr Ordonez's guidance, students practiced photography, focusing on elements such as lines, harmony, blur, structure, and contrast, aligned with the emphasis on advanced skills development through immersive learning.

In Suzhou, students strolled through classical gardens, capturing the unique lines and structures of the architecture. They photographed pavilions and winding paths, gaining a deeper understanding of harmony and contrast in photography. 

In Wuzhen, they focused on capturing the charm of the water town, using blur techniques to highlight the soft blend of flowing water and ancient bridges, further enhancing their understanding of photographic art.

Through landscape photography, cultural documentation, and personal reflection, students deeply understood the power of visual storytelling. They focused on the beauty of architecture and nature, learning how to convey emotions and ideas through storytelling.

Kevin, stated that this experience will help him express his creativity more vividly in photo essays, short films, or app design. Haslina, shared that the activity not only enhanced her photography skills and artistic appreciation but also deepened her understanding and application of digital media. Yifan believes these courses are not just about learning technical skills but also about changing perspectives, viewing the world in new ways, and using digital media and design to create a better future.

The presentation event following the study tour highlighted the students' progress and aligned with the EdFutures and META vision of integrating feedback and peer interaction as crucial elements in experiential learning. The students not only showcased their work but also engaged in discussions that reflected their commitment to fostering critical thinking and creative expression.

During a week of intensive Digital Media courses, students actively participated in lectures, workshops, and hands-on sessions. The diverse curriculum covered core knowledge and skills in digital media and design, providing a comprehensive learning experience.

We look forward to seeing each student achieve even greater success in their future studies and creations, and we eagerly anticipate the surprises and possibilities they will bring to the world.