School Trips

Vijay Top Trekking Expedition

The Vijay Top trekking expedition was successfully conducted from 22nd May to 31st May, marking a journey filled with challenge, growth, and achievement. Originally planned for March, the expedition was thoughtfully rescheduled to May, and despite uncertainties, it unfolded with strong resilience and commitment from both students and staff. The group of 15 students, guided by three dedicated teachers led by Shalin, Brian, and Carolyn, began their journey on 22nd May with travel to Dehradun, followed by orientation and preparation at Hotel Vasdaa Grand. Over the following days, the team progressed through key trekking points including Himari Camp, Sarutal Camp, and Juda Ka Talab, gradually acclimatizing to altitude, terrain, and mountain conditions. Each stage of the trek offered valuable learning experiences in endurance, teamwork, and adaptability.

A defining highlight of the expedition was the successful summit of Vijay Top, a moment of collective pride and transformation. Standing above the clouds, students experienced the deeper meaning of perseverance, where the mountains tested not just physical strength but patience, unity, and inner resilience. The descent from the summit reinforced essential life lessons in humility and gratitude, reminding everyone that every ascent is followed by grounding reflection. The group returned safely on 31st May, concluding a well-coordinated and enriching expedition.

This journey reaffirmed that mountain expeditions are not only about reaching a destination, but about personal transformation—shaping individuals who are more aware, resilient, and deeply connected to nature, others, and themselves.

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French Immersion - CMEF - France

Six students from GEMS Modern Academy, Sanika Milind Kelkar, Kiara Anand, Sharon Anna Philip, Swana Athithi Muthulingam, and Nitya Patni, participated in a week-long French language immersion program in the South of France, accompanied by their French teacher, Ms. Ankita Arora.

Hosted by the Centre Méditerranéen d'Études Françaises (CMEF) in Cap d’Ail, the program combined interactive French lessons with cultural experiences. Students explored landmarks in Nice, attended engaging language classes on topics such as artificial intelligence and sustainable fashion, and interacted with peers from Spain, Italy, and Ireland.

Educational excursions took them to Cannes, Èze, Antibes, and Monaco, where they experienced French culture firsthand while practicing their language skills in real-life settings. Evenings were filled with cultural activities, games, and social events that encouraged communication and intercultural exchange.

The program concluded with a diploma ceremony celebrating the students’ achievements and growth in language proficiency, cultural awareness, and independence. They returned home with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for the French language and culture.

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AI Internship for Young Achievers - NUS

Nineteen students from grades 9 to 12, accompanied by two teachers, Ms. Deepa Balasubramanian and Preetha K. Unni, attended the AI Internship for Young Achievers (AIYA) from 6th July to 20th July at the National University of Singapore (NUS). The program provided a comprehensive and immersive experience for the students, blending academic rigor with cultural exploration. Over the course of two weeks, students delved into the intricacies of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through sessions at the National University of Singapore (NUS) and hands-on projects, guided by industry experts and teaching assistants. They gained practical experience using tools like Python, Orange, and AWS for data preprocessing, model building, and Natural Language Processing. The program also included sessions on advanced topics like clustering techniques, decision trees, and image recognition, culminating in a series of quizzes and mock presentations to refine their understanding and presentation skills. Notably, 4 GMA students received Letters of Recommendation (LOR) from NUS for their outstanding achievements.

Beyond academics, the program offered students a taste of Singapore's vibrant culture and attractions. They explored iconic sites such as Marina Bay Sands, Sentosa Island, Universal Studios, and Chinatown, which added a rich cultural dimension to their stay. The program concluded with final presentations and a valedictory ceremony, marking the end of an intense yet fulfilling journey that left students with valuable knowledge, memorable experiences, and a deeper appreciation for AI and its applications in real-world scenarios.

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Round Square Conference – Rajkot

Students from GEMS Modern Academy participated in the Round Square Conference 2026, hosted by The Rajkumar College, Rajkot. Guided by the theme “Maned Warriors Beyond Frontiers,” the conference encouraged delegates to explore leadership, courage, conservation, and global citizenship beyond geographical and cultural boundaries.

The program began with heritage walks and ice-breaking sessions that fostered meaningful connections among delegates. A defining highlight was the Keynote Address by Dr. Divyabhanusinh Chavda, an eminent alumnus of The Rajkumar College and a renowned wildlife historian and conservationist, whose work on the Asiatic lion and India’s conservation legacy inspired students to view stewardship as a vital form of leadership.

Experiential learning formed the core of the conference, with delegates engaging in a jeep safari at Gir National Park, service activities, Baraza sessions, and conservation-focused documentaries. These immersive experiences strengthened collaboration, reflection, and responsibility which are key elements of the Round Square IDEALS. The conference culminated in a vibrant Multicultural Evening, where the GEMS Modern Academy delegation performed Bhangra, proudly showcasing India’s rich cultural heritage.

The GEMS Modern Academy delegation comprised Fateh Singh Nanda (Grade 6E), Prayag Sajith Nair (Grade MYP 2F), Ridhaan Kamlesh Dayalani (Grade MYP 2F), and Rudra Minesh Patel (Grade MYP 2F), who represented the school with confidence, enthusiasm, and strong international mindedness throughout the conference. The Round Square Conference 2026 at RKC was a truly enriching experience, empowering our students to return as reflective global citizens and true Maned Warriors Beyond Frontiers.

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Annapurna Base Camp

A team of 8 students, accompanied by 2 teachers and the Camps leader, embarked on an unforgettable journey from Dubai to Nepal for the Annapurna Base Camp trek. After a smooth arrival and preparation in Kathmandu and Pokhara, the team began their ascent through the breathtaking Annapurna region.

The trek offered a perfect blend of challenge and beauty, as students navigated diverse terrains — from dense bamboo forests to suspension bridges, waterfalls, and snow-lined paths. Gradually gaining altitude, they trekked past picturesque villages, panoramic valleys, and majestic views of the Annapurna range and the iconic Fishtail Mountain.

Throughout the expedition, students demonstrated exceptional teamwork, resilience, and enthusiasm. They supported each other through long trails and steep climbs, embracing every challenge with a positive spirit. The experience not only tested their physical endurance but also fostered leadership, reflection, and personal growth.

The team successfully completed the trek, reaching key milestones along the route and safely descending back to Pokhara before returning to Kathmandu. This expedition was a remarkable journey of adventure and learning.

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NASA Space Camp

Students enjoyed an unforgettable week of learning, discovery, and adventure across the USA. From exploring the history and global impact of Coca-Cola in Atlanta and reflecting on the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr., to experiencing hands-on engineering challenges at NASA Space Camp, the trip provided unique opportunities to broaden knowledge and develop new skills. Students also explored the University of Alabama, connected with nature at Monte Sano State Park, and engaged in exciting science-based activities at the McWane Science Center. Throughout the journey, they strengthened their teamwork, independence, and problem-solving skills while creating lasting memories with friends. The experience inspired our students to dream big, embrace new challenges, and appreciate the diverse world around them.

 

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Design For Change, I Can Children's Global Summit

36 students represented Dubai at the first ever Design For Change, I Can Children’s Global Summit in Italy from the 26th to 30th of November 2019. 29 students from GEMS Modern Academy, 1 from Cambridge and 6 from New Millennium School shared their projects with 3000 students from 40 countries across the globe.

International investors, educators, eminent personalities from around the world were also present at the conference. Encouraging video messages were also shared by media sensations Amitabh Bachchan and Rahul Bose.

Before leaving the U.A.E., the team visited KHDA to meet Dr. Abdulla Karam who encouraged and lauded their creativity, empathy and awareness in making and creating things that will change the lives of others.

The pre-opening ceremony was graced by the Mayoress of Rome and the finale, in the Vatican City, was graced by Pope Francesco. The conference consisted of interactive sessions for students and staff, games, and Q and A time for the various projects presented. After back-to-back sessions from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm, students visited famous historical landmarks of Rome. Next year, DFC plans to host the conference in Peru.

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US - WEST COAST TRIP

In July, a group of 12 students along with two teachers traveled to the west coast of the USA for a Technology Boot Camp. During the trip, students visited some of the top universities, iconic tech companies, tech museums and a national park. The students participated in the ‘My Tech Innovation Pro-gram' which honed their design thinking skills.

The trip was memorable and the students returned with memories for a lifetime.

 

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Global Young Leaders Program 2019

A group of 16 students embarked on this journey of learning where they got an opportunity to interact with people from different countries. Besides engaging in academic pursuits such as debating and critical thinking, they went on excursions to Oxford and Cambridge. They even visited the Tower of London and the London Dungeons.

Bidding adieu to Dulwich, the little town they called home for some time and all the incredible people they met, was not an easy task. The experience transformed them in many ways and made them more open minded and confident.