A group of students from St John’s Catholic School in Bishop Auckland have returned from a truly unforgettable educational visit to Singapore, having taken part in an international learning experience funded through the UK Government’s Turing Scheme. The visit offered students the opportunity to broaden their global outlook, develop future‑ready skills, and engage with education, innovation, and culture on an international stage.
The journey began with a direct flight from Heathrow, marking the start of an ambitious programme designed to raise aspirations and widen horizons. Upon arrival in Singapore, students quickly settled into one of the world’s most dynamic and diverse cities, embracing new surroundings, cultures, and experiences with enthusiasm and maturity.
Across the week, students followed a carefully planned itinerary that blended academic enrichment, real‑world industry insight, and cultural exploration. A major focus of the visit was STEM and innovation, with students taking part in a Minecraft Coding Workshop that developed problem‑solving, teamwork, and coding confidence through interactive challenges. Visits to Kok Tah Technical Farm and Aquaponics provided valuable insight into sustainable agriculture, food security, and the role of technology in shaping future global industries, while a visit to the Science Centre Singapore allowed students to immerse themselves in hands‑on experiments and interactive exhibits that brought scientific learning to life.
Reflecting on the impact of the trip, Thomas Young, Turing Scheme Manager, said:
“Our recent Turing Scheme trip to Singapore saw students fully engaged in hands‑on activities, growing in confidence, independence and resilience, while developing a stronger awareness of the world beyond their classroom. The Turing Scheme allowed us to provide this opportunity for our students, giving them a once in a lifetime opportunity.”
The educational element of the visit continued with an inspiring trip to the Singapore Institute of Management, where students enjoyed a campus tour and took part in a talk exploring international study pathways through the University of London. This session broadened students’ understanding of global education opportunities and sparked meaningful conversations about future ambitions beyond the UK.
Alongside academic learning, students experienced Singapore’s rich culture and iconic landmarks. Highlights included a cable car journey from Mount Faber Peak offering breathtaking views across the city, time spent exploring Sentosa Island and learning about tourism and development, and visits to the Singapore Flyer and Marina Bay Sands SkyPark, where students took time to reflect on the experiences gained throughout the trip. A traditional bumboat river cruise provided further insight into Singapore’s heritage, offering a memorable perspective of the city after dark.
Students also embraced Singapore’s renowned hawker culture, exploring bustling food markets and sampling local dishes. These experiences encouraged independence, confidence, and cultural awareness, with students navigating new environments and stepping outside their comfort zones.
The tour was delivered in partnership with SLT Tours, whose team supported students throughout the experience. Jake from SLT Tours reflected on the success of the visit:
“Singapore was an incredible experience from start to finish. It was a brilliant example of exactly how the Turing Scheme should be used. Myself and the team at SLT Tours are proud to have delivered another high‑quality trip in partnership with St John’s School. We came back having learned a lot and already looking forward to the next tour.”
Throughout the visit, students demonstrated exceptional professionalism, curiosity, and enthusiasm, acting as outstanding ambassadors for St John’s. The trip supported the core aims of the Turing Scheme by enabling students to gain global perspectives, develop employability and STEM skills in real‑world settings, build independence and cultural understanding, and broaden their awareness of opportunities beyond the UK.
As the group returned home, students brought with them not only lasting memories but strengthened confidence, raised aspirations, and a deeper understanding of the world around them. This truly was a trip of a lifetime and a powerful example of St John’s commitment to providing inclusive, high‑impact global learning experiences that prepare students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
