One Place One Story (OPOS) 2025: A Summer Camp That Breaks Boundaries in Bac Ninh

The “One Place One Story – OPOS” summer camp was held at Hoang Hoa Tham Secondary School in Bac Ninh City, marking the close of a 10-day journey filled with enriching experiences and meaningful connections. This program served as an inspiring bridge, connecting students from Saigon South International School (SSIS) and Lawrence S. Ting Secondary & High School (LSTS) with local youths through engaging activities centered on learning, cultural exchange, and heartfelt sharing.

Each year, the OPOS summer camp “stations” itself in a different province of Vietnam with a clear mission: to help students naturally enhance their English communication, sharpen soft skills, and – most importantly – foster deeper cultural awareness and social responsibility. It’s a perfect fusion of international learning and Vietnamese identity – shaping globally minded citizens who remain proudly rooted in their heritage.

This year, the ancient cultural cradle of Bac Ninh – home to the traditional Quan họ folk singing was chosen as the OPOS destination. A total of 120 middle school students from eight local schools fully immersed themselves in learning, cultural exploration, and personal development.

Joining them were 41 volunteers – Vietnamese and international students from SSIS and LSTS – divided into two teams: “English Support Volunteers” and “Media Volunteers”. They were more than just assistants – they served as role models, connectors, and creators of an inclusive, dynamic learning environment. The volunteers also gained hands-on experience in cultural immersion, teamwork, and leadership through real-world interaction. This vibrant exchange of ideas and cultures made OPOS uniquely empowering, encouraging students to express their authentic selves and learn from one another.

Throughout the 10-day journey (from June 16 to June 26, 2025), every moment at OPOS was filled with thoughtfully designed, hands-on activities:

“Master English – Unlock Soft Skills”

At OPOS, English wasn’t a dreaded subject or a dry lecture – it became a living language. Volunteers transformed each class into an interactive playground where students eagerly practiced conversations, debates, presentations, and team projects. The goal To help students speak English fluently and fearlessly.

Between lessons, media team-led games and challenges kept the energy high and minds engaged – all while subtly building problem-solving and teamwork skills.

“Cultural Adventures – Community Seeds”

A standout highlight of OPOS 2025 was the field trips to traditional craft villages in Bac Ninh. Students experienced firsthand the making of Dong Ho folk paintings and Phu Lang ceramics, while listening to artisans share stories passed down through generations. These hands-on encounters nurtured a deep appreciation for Vietnamese heritage and planted seeds for both preservation and innovation.

Storytelling Event” – The Night Stories Came to Life

The camp concluded on June 26, 2025, with an emotional “Storytelling Event”. Far from being a typical wrap-up, it became a stage where students took on the role of storytellers, confidently sharing their transformation journeys.From reflections on their English breakthroughs and soft skill growth to memorable cultural discoveries in Bac Ninh – each story was delivered in their own voice and style. It wasn’t just a showcase of language and public speaking development – it was a moment where every student shined with pride in who they had become.