How are the fresh, delicious vegetables we eat every day produced? To find the answer, TDSers in the IB MYP program temporarily left their desks to participate in a lively “green lesson” at Bắc Hà Vegetable Farm, part of the Tiền Lệ Agricultural Cooperative. This journey was part of the Individuals and Societies (I&S) curriculum. The students had the opportunity to observe and experience farm activities such as sowing, caring for, and harvesting vegetables. Through this, they gained a deeper understanding of the food production process, while also learning to appreciate farmers and the value of hard work.
Instead of just standing in a long line listening, the students actively split into small groups to weave between the vegetable beds, observing the sun-tanned hands of farmers at work. Mai Linh (9 Zurich) shared: “Usually, I only see clean vegetables on my plate, but today I finally understand the hard journey behind each bunch. It is the sweat of farmers, working under sun or rain, to make sure the vegetables we eat are always fresh and delicious.” The trip helped bridge the gap between city life and the countryside, giving TDSers a new perspective full of respect through hands-on experience.
True understanding doesn’t come from books alone; it comes from diverse experiences in the field: from observing farming techniques to holding rakes and hoes, carefully watering each bed alongside the farmers. Farm work helps students cultivate patience, adaptability, and respect for all professions.
Mr. Michael Leonard (MYP Program Coordinator) shared: “By getting ‘their hands dirty in the soil,’ students truly feel the value of hard work and the importance of stepping out of their comfort zones to connect with the real world. The greatest pride comes when they cherish the vegetables they personally harvested to bring back to school and share — it’s a lesson in gratitude that no classroom lecture can replace.”
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The Dewey Schools Tây Hồ Tây is an IB World School authorized to offer the IB MYP (Grades 6–10) and IB DP (Grades 11–12). The IB MYP program strengthens students’ academic foundation, research skills, and personal development, while enhancing their social awareness. The IB DP is a challenging academic program that equips students with global skills and knowledge, giving them a strong advantage in applying to the world’s top universities.
