The 2014 High School Student’s Evaluation Camp

March 31st to April 2nd

Gratitude for a safe environment and improved self-confidence were outcomes highlighted by 51 high school students who attended the annual end of year evaluation camp at Mae La Noi.   Running across 3 days and 2 nights the camp provided an encouraging space for students to evaluate the past year, set new goals and help direct the focus of their Sangsan training in the coming year.

The camp began with all students evaluating their experiences over the past year revealing many startling revelations about the difficulties they face at school and in the boarding house.  While the experiences varied from student to student, common issues became apparent about the treatment by teachers and school officials, discrimination, and difficulties in time and budget management.  The work demands on students living in the boarding house were particularly concerning and left students with little time to dedicate to their studies, added stress and affected their confidence.

The work of Sangsan over the past year had clearly had a positive impact on the students in helping them overcome these difficult circumstances.   Training in budget and time management, along with heath and exercise, had all helped students reduce stress and manage their mental health.  The camps received positive feedback, one student declaring, 

“I need the camps. It teaches me useful skills but also gives me a place to feel confident and safe”.

The impact of a safe environment became clear as the camp progressed with many students gaining confidence with each activity.  Many students also thanked Sangsan for the financial scholarships, saying studying would be impossible without it.  The benefit to their families was also noted as it alleviated financial demands on the family as a whole.

After evaluation the students discussed areas of training they would like to focus on in the coming year.  For many this involved building on the knowledge they already had in budget and time management, but also continuing to learn about managing their health.  Other topics, such as English language workshops, stress management and public speaking skills, were highlighted by the students.

Finally, the students set new goals for the coming year, in both their achievements academically but also personally.   Aside from better grades notable goals were to keep better budget records, be healthy and ultimately support each other in overcoming the obstacles they face. 

While evaluation and planning was the key focus, active and engaging exercises in English and dance also took place.  The dance exercise involved both male and female students participating in the 1 Billion Rising dance.  This was an activity that engaged students in a physical and collaborative exercise but also created discussion and awareness of violence against women.

At the conclusion of the camp information on the details of the scholarships were delivered and agreed upon.  As they were leaving the students described mix emotions, grateful for the experience of the camp, excitement for the activities ahead but also sadness as the camp was coming to a close.   With an exciting year ahead Sangsan would like to thank the students for their contributions at the camp and we look forward to working with them in the coming year.